Hummus recipe

Hummus is a delicacy appreciated throughout history, being a dish that combines delicious flavors and nutritional benefits. This creamy chickpea paste is not only a savory appetizer but also a healthy choice, packed with protein and fiber. Next, I will guide you step by step to achieve perfect hummus, with a velvety texture and intense flavor.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 can of chickpeas (400 g), well drained
- 1 clove of garlic, crushed (adjustable to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of sesame paste (tahini)
- 2 tablespoons of lemon-flavored olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: juice from 1/2 lemon for an extra freshness

Necessary utensils:
- Blender or food processor
- Spatula
- Serving bowl

Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by draining the chickpeas well from the can. It is important to remove the liquid to achieve a smooth paste. You can rinse the chickpeas under cold running water to remove excess sodium and preservatives.

2. Adding ingredients to the blender: Place the drained chickpeas in the blender, along with the crushed garlic clove, tomato paste, sesame paste, and olive oil. If you want a fresher taste, add the lemon juice.

3. The little trick: A secret to achieving creamier hummus is to add a little cold water, one tablespoon at a time, during blending. This step will help emulsify the ingredients and make the hummus easier to spread.

4. Blending: Start the blender on medium speed and blend the ingredients until you get a smooth paste. It is recommended to stop the blender occasionally and use the spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring that all ingredients are well integrated.

5. Adjusting the taste: Once the hummus is ready, taste it and add salt to your liking. You can also adjust the amount of garlic or tahini based on your personal preferences.

6. Serving: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. You can garnish it with a drizzle of olive oil and a few sesame seeds for a more attractive appearance.

Serving suggestions:
Hummus is perfect served with toasted bread, warm pita, or fresh vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. You can also use it as a dip for sandwiches or wraps, adding a touch of freshness and flavor.

Delicious variations:
- Roasted red pepper hummus: Add roasted red peppers to the hummus for a smoky and sweet flavor.
- Olive hummus: Incorporate black or green olives for a Mediterranean flavor.
- Spicy hummus: Add a few drops of hot sauce or chopped chili for an extra kick.

Nutritional benefits:
Hummus is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats due to chickpeas and olive oil. It is also rich in antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet. A serving of hummus has about 150 calories, depending on the amount of olive oil used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dried chickpeas? Yes, you can use dried chickpeas, but you need to boil them first. For 100 g of dried chickpeas, you will need about 300 ml of water and 2 hours of cooking.
- How can I store hummus? Hummus stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-5 days.
- What drinks pair well with hummus? A dry white wine or a mint lemonade cocktail are excellent choices that perfectly complement the umami of hummus.

In conclusion, this hummus recipe is not only quick and simple but also extremely versatile. I encourage you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own variations. Whether you serve it at a party or as an appetizer with family, hummus will always bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it. Try it and enjoy every spoonful!