Hummus recipe

Hummus - A Flavorful Delight

Preparation time: 3 hours (soaking) + 1 hour and 30 minutes (cooking) + 15 minutes (preparation)
Total time: 4 hours and 45 minutes
Servings: 2

The humble history of hummus takes us back in time to an era when simple ingredients were transformed into delicious delicacies. This nutrient-rich chickpea paste has gained popularity worldwide due to its versatility and refreshing taste. Hummus is not only a delicious appetizer but also an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it ideal for vegans and vegetarians. Get ready to discover a simple yet full of personality recipe that will bring a touch of flavor to your meals!

Ingredients:
- 250 grams of chickpeas
- 1 small dried chili pepper (or ½ teaspoon of chili)
- ½ teaspoon of cumin
- ½ teaspoon of thyme
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons of tahini paste (or 2 tablespoons of cooked sesame and 2 tablespoons of cold-pressed sesame oil)
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Juice from ½ lemon
- 4 coriander seeds
- 5 red peppercorns
- 2 black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon of poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon of salt

Step 1: Soaking the chickpeas
Wash the chickpeas under a stream of cold water, removing impurities. Then, place them in a bowl and cover them with warm water. Let them soak for about 3 hours. This step is essential as soaked chickpeas will cook much faster, resulting in a more pleasant texture.

Step 2: Cooking the chickpeas
After soaking the chickpeas, drain them and place them in a pot. Cover them with fresh water, adding a pinch of salt. Boil for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, skimming periodically to remove impurities. When the chickpeas become soft, drain them, but keep some of the cooking water for later use.

Step 3: Preparing the aromatic ingredients
In a mortar or grinder, add the chili pepper, cumin, thyme, coriander, salt, and pepper. Grind them well until you obtain a fine powder. This mixture will add a layer of deep flavor to your hummus.

Step 4: Blending the hummus
Chop the garlic clove and add it to the blender along with the cooked chickpeas and the spice mixture from the mortar. If you are not using tahini, add the cooked sesame and cold-pressed sesame oil now. These ingredients will provide a creamy texture and an unmistakable taste.

Step 5: Finalizing the composition
Add the olive oil and lemon juice to the blender. To achieve a spreadable consistency, gradually add a few tablespoons of the reserved cooking water until you reach the desired texture. Taste and adjust the salt or lemon juice according to your preference.

Step 6: Serving
Fill a bowl with your creamy hummus and sprinkle poppy seeds on top. This detail not only adds an attractive appearance but also provides a pleasant crunch. Serve the hummus with toasted bread or warm pita, and your meals will instantly become more flavorful!

Practical tips:
- Use canned chickpeas to save time, but make sure to drain and rinse them well.
- Experiment with adding extra spices such as turmeric or smoked paprika to customize the hummus flavor.
- Store the hummus in an airtight container in the fridge; it will keep well for a few days.

Nutritional benefits:
Hummus is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, being rich in vitamins and minerals. It contributes to digestive health and helps maintain energy levels throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned chickpeas?
Yes, canned chickpeas are a quick and convenient option. Make sure to drain and rinse them well before use.

2. What can I use instead of tahini?
If you don’t have tahini on hand, you can use cooked sesame and sesame oil, as described in the recipe.

3. How can I make the hummus spicier?
If you want a spicier hummus, add more chili pepper or even a few drops of hot sauce.

Variations:
Experiment by adding ingredients like olives, garden peppers, or even avocado to create hummus with different flavors. Each variation will bring new life to the classic recipe.

Serve the hummus alongside a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or a fruit smoothie, for a complete culinary experience. Its creamy taste and complex flavors will make your hummus the star of the meal!