There’s something incredibly satisfying about making a product at home that you used to buy at the supermarket. Not only do you get fresher and often healthier results, but you also have full control over the ingredients and can customize it to your taste. After learning how to make this at home, I completely stopped buying it at the store. Let me share this simple and rewarding recipe with you!
What is it?
This could be anything from bread, yogurt, granola, or even a sauce that you’ve always purchased but never thought to make yourself. The process is simpler than you might think, and the results are so good that you’ll wonder why you didn’t start making it sooner. For this example, let’s dive into a recipe for homemade hummus—a versatile, delicious spread that’s far better when made fresh at home.
Homemade Hummus Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons water (adjust for consistency)
- Paprika and olive oil for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Ingredients
- Combine the base ingredients:
- In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and ground cumin.
- Blend until smooth:
- Process the mixture until smooth and creamy. If the hummus is too thick, gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 2: Season and Adjust
- Season to taste:
- Taste the hummus and season with salt as needed. You can also adjust the lemon juice or garlic according to your preference.
- Blend again:
- Give it another quick blend to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer to a serving bowl:
- Spoon the hummus into a bowl and use the back of a spoon to create a small well in the center.
- Garnish:
- Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil into the well and sprinkle with paprika and fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve:
- Serve your homemade hummus with warm pita bread, fresh veggies, or use it as a spread in sandwiches.
Why Make It at Home?
- Fresher Taste: Homemade hummus has a much fresher flavor compared to store-bought varieties, which can sometimes taste bland or overly preserved.
- Healthier Ingredients: You control what goes into your hummus. No unnecessary preservatives, artificial flavors, or excess salt—just wholesome, natural ingredients.
- Cost-Effective: Making hummus at home is often cheaper than buying it pre-made, especially if you make large batches.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavor to your liking, whether you prefer more lemon, garlic, or even a spicy kick with added chili flakes.
Variations
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Add 1/2 cup of roasted red peppers to the food processor for a smoky, sweet variation.
Spicy Hummus
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Garlic-Lovers Hummus
Double the garlic for an extra garlicky flavor that’s perfect for true garlic enthusiasts.
Herb-Infused Hummus
Add fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil for a bright, herbaceous twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does homemade hummus last?
Store homemade hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
2. Can I freeze hummus?
Yes, hummus can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
3. What if I don’t have tahini?
You can substitute tahini with peanut butter or leave it out altogether, though the flavor will be slightly different.
4. Can I use dried chickpeas?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight and cook until tender before using in the recipe.
5. How can I make hummus creamier?
For extra creamy hummus, peel the chickpeas before blending, or add a little more tahini and olive oil.
Once you’ve made hummus at home, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought version. The freshness, flavor, and satisfaction of creating something so delicious from scratch are unbeatable. This recipe is just one example of how easy and rewarding it can be to make your own kitchen staples. Give it a try, and enjoy the wonderful taste of homemade hummus!
