Authentic Chickpea Hummus Recipe – Easy Tahini Garlic Dip

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Chickpea Hummus Recipe – Easy Tahini Garlic Dip

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a delicious, healthy dip that’s perfect for parties, snacks, or just a cozy night in. And honestly, nothing beats a good, creamy hummus. I first made this recipe years ago when I was craving something flavorful and satisfying, and it’s been a staple ever since. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home, and so much better than anything you can buy in the store. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hummus recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the perfect blend of chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and spices. It’s also super versatile – you can adjust the spice level to your liking and serve it with pretty much anything! Plus, it’s a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Honestly, once you try homemade hummus, you’ll never go back to store-bought.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of this amazing hummus:

• 1.5 cups dry chickpeas (about 360g)
• 6 cloves garlic
• 4 tbsp tahini paste (about 60ml)
• 1 tbsp paprika powder (about 7g)
• 1 tsp cumin powder (about 5g)
• Salt as required
• Olive oil as required

Ingredient Notes

Okay, let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference in the final flavor.

• Tahini Paste Quality: Seriously, this is key. Look for a tahini that’s smooth, creamy, and has a slightly nutty flavor. The better the tahini, the better the hummus. I prefer brands made with hulled sesame seeds for a milder taste.
• Chickpea Variety – Desi vs Kabuli: I usually use Kabuli chickpeas (the beige ones) for this recipe, as they have a milder flavor and creamier texture. However, you can use Desi chickpeas (the darker, smaller ones) if you prefer a more earthy taste. Just be aware they might need a little longer to cook.
• Olive Oil Type: A good quality extra virgin olive oil is best for drizzling on top. It adds a lovely fruity flavor. For blending, a lighter olive oil works well too.
• Regional Paprika Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of paprika! Smoked paprika adds a wonderful smoky depth, while sweet paprika offers a milder flavor. I’ve even used a little bit of Kashmiri chili powder for a beautiful color and gentle heat.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, soak those chickpeas! Place 1.5 cups of dry chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of water. Let them soak overnight – at least 8 hours. This helps them cook evenly and become super creamy.
2. Once soaked, drain and rinse the chickpeas. Add them to a pressure cooker along with 6 cloves of garlic and a generous pinch of salt. Add just enough water to cover the chickpeas.
3. Pressure cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chickpeas are incredibly tender. You should be able to easily mash them with a fork. Once cooked, drain the chickpeas, reserving about 1/2 cup of the cooking water – this is liquid gold! Let them cool slightly.
4. Now for the magic! In a food processor, combine the cooked chickpeas, garlic, 4 tablespoons of tahini paste, 1 tablespoon of paprika powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin powder, and a good pinch of salt.
5. Start blending, adding the reserved chickpea cooking water a little at a time until you reach a thick, smooth, and creamy paste. You might need to scrape down the sides of the food processor a few times. Don’t be afraid to add more water if needed to get the consistency just right.
6. Finally, transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle generously with olive oil and sprinkle with a little extra paprika for a pop of color.

Expert Tips

• Peel the Chickpeas (Optional): For ultra-smooth hummus, you can remove the skins from the chickpeas after cooking. It’s a bit time-consuming, but worth it if you’re aiming for perfection!
• Ice Water Trick: Adding a tablespoon of ice water while blending can help create an even lighter and fluffier texture.
• Taste as You Go: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more salt, cumin, or paprika as needed.

Variations

Hummus is a blank canvas for flavor! Here are a few of my favorite variations:

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan!
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Naturally gluten-free too – perfect for everyone.
• Spice Level: Want a little heat? Add a pinch of chili flakes or a small chopped chili to the food processor. My friend loves a really spicy hummus, so I always make a batch with extra chili for her.
• Festival Adaptations: This is amazing as part of a Middle Eastern or Mediterranean mezze platter. Think olives, feta, stuffed grape leaves, and lots of fresh veggies.

Serving Suggestions

Okay, you’ve got a bowl of gorgeous hummus. Now what?

• With warm Arabic bread (khubz) or pita bread for dipping.
• Alongside a colorful array of vegetable sticks – carrots, celery, cucumber, bell peppers.
• As a spread for sandwiches or wraps.
• Served with grilled meats or falafel.
• Honestly, just eat it straight from the bowl with a spoon – no judgement here!

Storage Instructions

Leftover hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavor might intensify slightly over time. You can also freeze hummus for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• What is the best type of chickpea to use for hummus? Kabuli chickpeas are generally preferred for their mild flavor and creamy texture, but Desi chickpeas work too!
• Can I make hummus without tahini? What can I substitute? While tahini is traditional, you can substitute it with sunflower seed butter or even cashew butter in a pinch. The flavor will be different, but still delicious.
• How can I adjust the consistency of my hummus? Add more reserved chickpea water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• How long does homemade hummus last in the refrigerator? Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
• What is the origin of hummus and its cultural significance? Hummus has a long and fascinating history, dating back centuries in the Middle East. It’s a staple food in many cultures and is often associated with hospitality and sharing.