🧄 Classic Hummus Recipe

A creamy, garlicky chickpea dip blended with tahini, lemon, and olive oil—an iconic Middle Eastern mezze perfect for dipping or spreading.

---

📝 Ingredients:

• 1½ cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)

• ¼ cup tahini (sesame paste)

• 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (to taste)

• 1–2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2–4 tablespoons cold water (for desired consistency)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for garnish)

• ½ teaspoon salt (to taste)

• Optional: ¼ teaspoon ground cumin

• Garnish: paprika, chopped parsley, whole chickpeas, olive oil

---

🍽️ Instructions:

1. Blend the Base:
In a food processor, add chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.

2. Adjust Texture:
With the processor running, slowly drizzle in cold water (or aquafaba from the chickpeas) until the mixture becomes light, smooth, and creamy.

3. Finish with Flavor:
Add olive oil and cumin (if using) and blend briefly to incorporate.

4. Serve:
Transfer to a serving bowl, make a shallow swirl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika and parsley. Add whole chickpeas in the center if desired.

5. Enjoy:
Serve with warm pita, fresh vegetables, falafel, or use as a sandwich spread.

---

🔄 Variations:

• Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Blend in one roasted red bell pepper for a smoky-sweet twist.

• Spicy Harissa Hummus: Add 1–2 teaspoons of harissa paste for heat and depth.

• Beetroot Hummus: Blend in ½ cup cooked beets for a vibrant pink color and earthy sweetness.

• Avocado Hummus: Add 1 ripe avocado for extra creaminess and a subtle green hue.

• Greek-style: Top with chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta (optional in halal context).

---