Hummus
This dish is not only simple but also healthy, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
- Hummus is a traditional dish from the Middle East, known for its rich texture and healthy nutritional profile. Its main ingredients are chickpeas and tahini, combined with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to create a smooth, flavorful dip.
- Hummus is rich in plant-based protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a great choice for vegetarians and those who prioritize healthy eating. It can be enjoyed as a dip with pita bread, vegetables, or used as a spread for sandwiches, and also complements various main dishes.
- As a classic Middle Eastern dish, hummus is versatile in its preparation, allowing for the addition of spices or ingredients such as cumin, paprika, or cilantro to suit individual preferences. Its simple preparation and natural ingredients make it ideal for home cooking, and it's also a staple on restaurant menus, offering a perfect balance of nutrition and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of dried chickpeas (or 400g canned chickpeas)
- 1/4 cup of tahini
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- Water as needed
- A pinch of cumin (optional)
- Garnish: olive oil, paprika, or cilantro (optional)
- If using dried chickpeas, the preparation time is around 12 hours (including soaking), and the cooking time is about 1.5 hours.
- If using canned chickpeas, the whole process takes only about 10-15 minutes.
Instructions:
Prepare the chickpeas:
- If using dried chickpeas, soak them in water for 12 hours (overnight). The next day, drain and cook them in fresh water for about 1-1.5 hours until soft. If using canned chickpeas, simply drain and rinse them.
Make the hummus:
- Place the cooked chickpeas in a food processor. Add tahini, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth.
Adjust consistency:
- Gradually add water to reach your preferred consistency. Blend until creamy. Adjust seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or garlic to taste.
Garnish and serve:
Transfer the hummus to a serving plate. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika or cilantro as garnish. Serve with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or as a dip.
