Hummus is a really popular condiment these days. And while it’s easy to find a wide selection in the grocery store, I prefer to make it at home because it tastes so much better when it is freshly made. Don’t worry, I promise that making hummus at home is simpler than you think, and once you learn how to make it fresh you’ll never want it any other way. It’s also very easy to add your own flavor to homemade hummus, and in this episode not only do I show you how to make it, but my three favorite ways to flavor it.
In Greece you’ll often find hummus on mezze platters that are served at the beginning of each meal. It is used as a dip of spread for fresh grilled pita, vegetables, or whatever else happens to be on the table. In my house sometimes I use it as a spread for sandwiches or when I make chicken souvlaki. I’ve also seen it spread on toast in the morning, and served with pretzels as an after school snack for children.
The key to making hummus quickly is using pre-soaked beans. Then it’s simply a matter of giving them enough time to truly aerate in the food processor. This is what gives the hummus and almost whipped-like texture. Then you add the remaining ingredients and it is ready in under five minutes. It really is that easy!
To add the different flavors to the homemade hummus I first like to portion it into dishes for a nice presentation. Then I add the flavors on top and lightly stir them in. Since people use the hummus as a dip you don’t need to stir in the flavors too deeply. The pita wedge will scoop them right up!
To make a hummus bar when entertaining simply line up the different hummus flavors with a tray of fresh pita wedges in front and let your guests enjoy the different flavors. I promise, it’s always a hit!
HOMEMADE HUMMUS
Homemade hummus is beyond amazing. You can make it from scratch in the same amount of time it takes to get it from the grocery store. I like to add fresh flavors to my homemade hummus to create a whole selection to choose from when I have guests over. Never underestimate how much everyone will eat!
Makes 6 Servings
Timing: 5 minutes
Equipment needed: large food processor
Ingredients
2 15.5oz. cans of chickpeas, drained (with 2 tbsp of liquid reserved)
4 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1/8 tsp cayenne
1/8th tsp fine sea salt
1/2 tsp cumin
2 tbsp tahini
2 tbsp lemon juice
Zest of one lemon
Instructions
Add the chickpeas, aquafaba (chickpea liquid), garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, cumin and cayenne to your food processor.
Once blended, add the tahini and continue to blend for an additional two minutes.
The hummus should be starting to take shape and be a creamy consistency. At this point you want to drizzle in your olive oil and let the food processor run for a minimum of 5 minutes. This will ensure that your hummus is a smooth, creamy texture.
Remove from food processor and let chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
When you’re ready to enjoy, serve with some grilled pita or veggies. You can also top your hummus with more olive oil, roasted garlic, or tahini.
Enjoy!
Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT. She is currently operating with COVID-safe procedures and is happy to discuss your event and catering needs with you. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekasevents.com or call 203.658.8659.