5 Best Middle Eastern Hummus Recipes Creamy and Delicious

Understanding Hummus The Middle Eastern Staple Food

Hummus, that creamy, dreamy dip we all know and love, is more than just a snack; it's a cultural icon. Originating in the Middle East, hummus has been a staple for centuries, enjoyed by everyone from ancient civilizations to modern-day foodies. It's traditionally made from chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, blended to a smooth, velvety consistency. But what makes hummus so special?

For starters, it's incredibly versatile. You can slather it on pita bread, dip vegetables in it, spread it on sandwiches, or even use it as a base for more elaborate dishes. Hummus is also packed with nutrients, offering a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Plus, it's naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for people with dietary restrictions. The simple combination of ingredients creates a food that’s not only good for you, but also incredibly satisfying.

The beauty of hummus lies in its adaptability. While the classic recipe is a beloved standard, there's plenty of room for experimentation. From adding roasted red peppers to infusing it with herbs and spices, you can customize hummus to suit your personal taste. Each variation brings a unique flavor profile to the table, making hummus a culinary adventure waiting to happen. So, let’s dive into the best hummus recipes you can whip up at home.

Classic Hummus Recipe Ingredients and Steps

Let's start with the foundation: the classic hummus recipe. This is the version you'll find in most Middle Eastern restaurants, and it's a perfect starting point for your hummus journey. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• Water, as needed

And here’s how you make it:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and salt.
2. Blend: Process until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more lemon juice for tanginess, more garlic for a sharper flavor, or more salt to enhance the overall taste.
4. Serve: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika or chopped parsley. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or your favorite dippers.

Pro Tip: For an extra smooth hummus, remove the skins from the chickpeas before blending. This step is optional but makes a noticeable difference in texture.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe The Smoky Twist

Want to add a smoky, sweet twist to your hummus? Roasted red pepper hummus is the way to go. The roasted peppers bring a depth of flavor that complements the creamy chickpeas perfectly. Here's what you'll need:

• Classic hummus recipe (see above)
• 1 large red bell pepper

Here’s how to make it:

1. Roast the Pepper: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the red pepper on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is blackened and blistered.
2. Cool and Peel: Remove the pepper from the oven and place it in a bowl covered with plastic wrap. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes, then peel off the blackened skin. Remove the seeds and stem.
3. Add to Hummus: Add the roasted red pepper to the food processor along with the classic hummus ingredients.
4. Blend: Process until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with chopped parsley or a pinch of paprika.

Pro Tip: You can also roast the red pepper over an open flame on your stovetop or grill for a more intense smoky flavor.

Spicy Jalapeno Hummus Recipe For Heat Lovers

If you like your hummus with a kick, jalapeno hummus is the perfect choice. This recipe adds a fiery twist that will wake up your taste buds. Here's what you'll need:

• Classic hummus recipe (see above)
• 1-2 jalapenos, seeded and chopped (adjust to your spice preference)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Jalapenos: Seed and chop the jalapenos. Be careful when handling jalapenos, as they can irritate your skin. Consider wearing gloves.
2. Add to Hummus: Add the chopped jalapenos to the food processor along with the classic hummus ingredients.
3. Blend: Process until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more jalapeno for extra heat, or more lemon juice to balance the spice.
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Pro Tip: For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before chopping.

Creamy Avocado Hummus Recipe The Green Goodness

Avocado hummus is a creamy, healthy, and vibrant twist on the classic recipe. The avocado adds a rich texture and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious snack. Here's what you'll need:

• Classic hummus recipe (see above)
• 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled

Instructions:

1. Prepare Avocado: Pit and peel the avocado.
2. Add to Hummus: Add the avocado to the food processor along with the classic hummus ingredients.
3. Blend: Process until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more lemon juice to prevent the avocado from browning, or more salt to enhance the flavor.
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Pro Tip: Use a ripe but firm avocado for the best texture and flavor.

Black Bean Hummus Recipe The Southwestern Flair

For a unique and flavorful twist, try black bean hummus. This recipe swaps out the traditional chickpeas for black beans, giving it a Southwestern flair. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2-3 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt to taste
• Water, as needed

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the black beans, tahini, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, and salt.
2. Blend: Process until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more lime juice for tanginess, more chili powder for heat, or more salt to enhance the flavor.
4. Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with chopped cilantro, chopped red onion, or a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Pro Tip: For a smoother texture, soak the black beans in water for a few hours before blending.

Hummus Product Recommendations and Comparisons

Making hummus at home is fantastic, but sometimes you need a quick and convenient option. Here are a few hummus products available in the US market, along with comparisons and pricing:

• Sabra Classic Hummus: This is a widely available and popular brand. It has a smooth texture and a classic flavor. It's a great option for everyday snacking. A 10-ounce container typically costs around $4.
• Cedar's Mediterranean Foods Original Hummus: Cedar's offers a more authentic flavor profile with a slightly chunkier texture. It's made with high-quality ingredients and is a good choice for those seeking a more traditional taste. A 10-ounce container costs approximately $5.
• Hope Hummus Organic Original: If you're looking for an organic option, Hope Hummus is a great choice. It's made with organic ingredients and has a creamy texture and a fresh flavor. A 8-ounce container is usually priced around $6.
• Trader Joe's Hummus: Trader Joe's offers a variety of hummus flavors at affordable prices. Their classic hummus is a good value, and they also have unique flavors like roasted garlic and spicy jalapeno. Prices vary, but a container typically costs between $3 and $5.
• Oasis Mediterranean Cuisine Hummus: Oasis offers a more artisanal experience. The texture is very smooth and the taste is more robust. A 10-ounce container is usually priced around $7.

Comparison: Sabra is a reliable and affordable option for everyday snacking. Cedar's offers a more authentic taste, while Hope Hummus is a good choice for organic eaters. Trader Joe's provides a variety of flavors at budget-friendly prices. When choosing a brand, consider your personal taste preferences and budget.

Hummus Usage Scenarios and Serving Suggestions

Hummus is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some usage scenarios and serving suggestions:

• Snacking: Serve hummus with pita bread, vegetables (carrots, celery, cucumbers, bell peppers), or crackers for a healthy and satisfying snack.
• Appetizer: Offer hummus as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. Serve it with a variety of dippers and garnishes for a visually appealing and flavorful spread.
• Sandwich Spread: Use hummus as a spread on sandwiches and wraps instead of mayonnaise or other condiments. It adds flavor, moisture, and nutrients.
• Salad Dressing: Thin out hummus with a little water or lemon juice and use it as a dressing for salads. It adds a creamy texture and a Middle Eastern flavor.
• Meal Component: Incorporate hummus into meals as a side dish or a component of a larger dish. Serve it with grilled chicken, falafel, or roasted vegetables.

Garnishing Ideas: Drizzle hummus with olive oil, sprinkle with paprika, chopped parsley, sesame seeds, or a pinch of sumac for added flavor and visual appeal.