Hummus salad

Hummus: A Wonderful Chickpea Salad

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

I invite you to discover a culinary gem of the East – hummus, a simple and delicious recipe that will transform any meal into a gourmet experience. Originating from a rich gastronomic tradition, hummus is a chickpea paste that combines the intense flavors of garlic and lemon with a creamy texture, perfect for enjoying with warm pita or fresh vegetables.

This hummus recipe is not only refined but also packed with nutritional benefits. Chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, making hummus a healthy choice for any diet.

The ingredients needed to prepare delicious hummus are:

- 2 cans of cooked chickpeas (about 400 g each)
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (or 1-2 cloves of fresh garlic)
- Juice from 3/4 lemon
- 9 tablespoons of chickpea liquid (from the can)
- 3 tablespoons of tahini (sesame paste)
- Salt to taste
- A quarter teaspoon of cumin (optional)

Making hummus involves a few simple steps, and I will be with you throughout the entire recipe:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by draining the first can of chickpeas completely. This will be added to the blender to create the base of the hummus. Before opening the second can, make sure you have a strainer handy to catch the liquid. From this liquid, you will use 9 tablespoons to achieve a creamy texture.

2. Using the chickpeas: Open the second can of chickpeas and drain them through the strainer. In addition to the liquid you will use, keep a few chickpeas aside for decoration. These will add an attractive look to your hummus.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In the blender, add the chickpeas from the first can, lemon juice, olive oil, tahini, garlic (either crushed fresh or powder), and salt to taste. Also add the 9 tablespoons of chickpea liquid you saved.

4. Blending: Start the blender on medium speed and let it blend the ingredients for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. If the hummus is too thick, you can gradually add more chickpea liquid or water until you reach the desired consistency.

5. Final taste: Turn off the blender and taste the hummus. This is the moment to adjust the seasonings – you may need more salt, lemon, or olive oil. The secret to perfect hummus is the balance between acidity and creaminess.

6. Serving: Transfer the hummus to a bowl and drizzle with a splash of olive oil, a few chickpeas you saved, a sprinkle of cumin, and a fresh parsley or cilantro leaf, depending on your preference.

Hummus is best served with warm pita, fresh vegetables, or even as an ingredient in a sandwich. This versatile dish pairs perfectly with a glass of fresh lemonade or mint tea, creating a perfect combination of flavors.

Useful tips for perfect hummus:
- If you want a smoother hummus, you can peel the chickpeas, but this step is optional and time-consuming.
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best taste.
- Experiment with different flavors, such as chili, paprika, or olives, to customize the hummus to your taste.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dried chickpeas?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas, but you will need to boil them before using. Make sure to soak them overnight to reduce cooking time.

- How long does hummus last?
Hummus can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for about 5-7 days.

- What other recipes can hummus be combined with?
Hummus can be served alongside salads, falafel, kebabs, or as a delicious snack with fresh vegetables.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Regardless of the occasion, hummus is an excellent choice, full of flavor and health. I look forward to hearing your impressions after you prepare it!