Hummus is a staple in my diet. I pretty much eat it every day, whether in a wrap, salad or as a dip. However, it can be a pretty pricey item at the grocery store. Once I learned how easy and affordable it is to have fresh, I always try to make it instead of buying the stuff in plastic packages at the store. I love having the flexibility to make a variety of different flavors. Plus, I love knowing exactly what ingredients are in it, since I consume so much of it!
Ingredients:
1 (15.5oz) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans): Try Goya brand – great flavor and low-cost.
2 T olive oil
2 T lemon juice
1 T crushed garlic
1 tsp salt
2 T tahini : Tahini is a sesame paste. It is usually found near the peanut butter or in the natural food section. It’s pricey, but it will be good for dozens of batches of hummus.
Just put all of the ingredients into a food processor and blend away. The hummus will become smooth and creamy. If you are using a blender, it might be a little slower process. Try to add a bit more lemon juice or even a little water to help it blend better.
Add-Ins:
Here are some suggestions for making flavored hummus options!
Add ¼ cup of one of the following while the food processor is running (or for a chunkier hummus, blend in an 1/8 cup and then stir in the remaining 1/8 cup):
sundried tomatoes • black olives • roasted peppers • artichoke hearts
Other Variations:
- Stir in a large handful of pine nuts for a crunchier texture.
- Try different spices, such as cumin, curry and even honey.
- Add a couple tablespoons of pesto and a little extra lemon.
For a great dipping bread, make fresh Whole-Wheat Flatbread. It’s extremely simple and there’s no waiting around for the bread to rise! You’ll have warm, delicious bread to dip into your hummus in no time.