Best Hummus Recipe: An Essence of Middle Eastern Cuisine

Probably one of the first things that come to mind when you think of traditional Middle Eastern cuisine is hummus. It’s smooth and creamy with a wide range of flavors.  

How many of you are aware of the origins of hummus and what is the best way to prepare it at home? That is the key question. Welcome to the world of hummus, the delicious Middle Eastern dish that has conquered the globe.  

The Origin and History of Hummus: 

Hummus is thousands of years old and has a very deep history. Many believe it started in the Levant region. It is comprised of countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine. In ancient times, people in these lands used to live on hummus. It used to form one of the staple foods in their daily lives. The dish is simple but very tasty. 

Time passed, and the hummus spread out. From the Middle East, it came to other parts of the world. People loved its unique flavor and versatility. They started making and enjoying hummus in different countries. 

Today, hummus is everywhere. It is in street markets in Cairo and on supermarket shelves in New York. The journey from a humble Middle Eastern dish to becoming a global favorite is truly a definition of its universal appeal. Hummus binds cultures together really through taste. 

Why Hummus is a Leading Middle Eastern Food: 

Hummus isn’t just for dipping. It stands for the warmth and hospitality of Middle Eastern society. Tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chickpeas combine to create an incredibly delicious flavor.   

This meal is not only delicious but also incredibly healthful. Packed with fiber, protein, and good fats, this becomes a go-to food for the healthiest nuts around. Hummus somehow has a unifying quality that goes well with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches.  

Ingredients You Will Need: 

To prepare the tasty hummus, here are a few ingredients you will need. These are as follows- 

• 1 can of chickpeas (or 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas) 

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon) 

• ¼ cup well-stirred tahini 

• 1 small garlic clove, minced 

• 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving 

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 

• Salt, to taste 

• 2 to 3 tablespoons water 

• Dash of ground paprika for serving 

How to Make the Best Hummus: 

Now that your hummus ingredients are ready, let’s go step by step for the best hummus. 

Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas: 

First, take out your chickpeas. In case you are using the canned version, open it and pour it into a strainer. After that, drain the liquid from the can. Next, rinse the chickpeas with cold water. This removes excessive salt or preservatives. 

It is true that peeling the chickpeas results in a smoother hummus. At the end of the day, it makes all the difference, even though it is a little tedious. It will come off easily if you take your time and give each one a very light finger pinch. You should invest some time in the process as it will take a few minutes, but the end product will be a much creamier hummus. If time is of the essence, then don’t do it. However, this works if you want the best texture. 

Step 2: Mix the Tahini and Lemon Juice: 

Next, fire up your food processor. Add the tahini and lemon juice to the processor bowl. These two ingredients are critical to incorporating a smooth, creamy hummus. Process for around one minute. This is going to whip the tahini and lemon juice together to a nice, thick, creamy base. This will help the hummus blend smoothly later. 

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning:  

Now it’s time to add some flavor. Mince one small garlic clove and add it to the processor. Next, add the ground cumin. Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor to the hummus. Then add a pinch of salt. Salt brings out all the flavors in the dish.  

Now turn the processor on again. Let this run for another minute, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. This makes sure that everything gets blended. 

Step 4: Add in the Chickpeas and Mix: 

Now, it is time to add the chickpeas. Add half the chickpeas to the processor Run the processor and process for one minute. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl. This will help mix the chickpeas well with the tahini mixture.  

Now, add the remaining chickpeas. Process again until the mixture is smooth. This should be about one to two minutes. The more you process, the creamier the hummus will be. 

Step 5: Adjust the Consistency: 

By now, you should use the food processor to help the hummus get to the right consistency for you. With the processor running, drizzle in the olive oil—that’s what makes the hummus rich and silky. Then add water a little at a time until the hummus is as thick or thin as you like it. If you like it thick, add less water. 

For thinner, lighter hummus, more. Taste the hummus as you go. If it needs more salt, cumin, or lemon juice, add it now. Mix again so everything is well incorporated. 

Step 6: Serving of the Hummus: 

Now your hummus is ready. You put it in a serving bowl and, with the back of the spoon, open a small well in the middle. Drizzle a little bit of olive oil into this well. This gives it a nice sheen, extra richness, and, finally, a dash of paprika on top. Not only will it add color, but it will also add flavor: a hint of the smoky-type flavor. 

Serve it with warm pita bread. Just tear off chunks of the bread and use them to scrape up the hummus. You can serve it with fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and/or bell pepper strips.  

Crunchy veggies are a good contrast to creamy hummus. Enjoy your homemade hummus! It is an easy, healthy, delicious dish that everyone loves. 

Taste Authentic Hummus at The Palace:  

If you are looking for classic hummus without a desire to make it homemade, visit us at The Palace. Our atmosphere-rich establishment has a great reputation and standards for crummy excess as far as Middle Eastern dishes are concerned.  

As a leading Mediterranean restaurant in Upland, we offer you hummus leaning very close to the original. Fresh and qualitative ingredients are crafted with a recipe passed over generations.  

You can enjoy it as an appetizer or match it with one of our delicious main dishes. Do not miss having to visit us at The Palace and get swept into a world of flavors across the Middle East. 

Conclusion: 

Ready for a hummus experience? Toss in the ingredients and proceed as directed above. Hummus is a taste of the Middle East, not just a food. A taste of hummus will undoubtedly make you smile and feel warm inside, whether you’re at home or somewhere like The Palace. So, why do you hesitate?   

Prepare your hummus right now, or if you want to treat yourself, go to The Palace for an amazing meal that will make you fall in love with hummus all over again. Get a seat right away and spoil yourself with the best hummus in town!