Chickpea Hummus Recipe (No Tahini!)
Are you a hummus lover but don't have tahini on hand? Don't worry! This recipe shows you how to make delicious, creamy hummus without tahini, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. It's a fantastic alternative, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike!
Why This Recipe Works
This tahini-free hummus recipe relies on clever ingredient substitutions to achieve that classic creamy texture and nutty flavor profile we all love about hummus. We'll use a combination of lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to achieve a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying dip.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained well. (Tip: Using canned chickpeas is quicker, but you can also use dried chickpeas if you soak them overnight and cook them until tender).
- 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed is best!
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced. (Adjust to your preferred garlic intensity).
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, good quality olive oil makes a big difference!
- 1/4 cup water, or more as needed to reach desired consistency.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin, for warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste.
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional), for a touch of heat.
- Optional garnishes: Paprika, olive oil drizzle, chopped parsley, or toasted pine nuts.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: Add the chickpeas, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, water, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) to a food processor.
- Blend until smooth: Process the mixture until completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times. Add more water, a tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your preferred consistency.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more lemon juice for acidity, salt for saltiness, or cumin for a deeper flavor.
- Serve and enjoy: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish with paprika, a drizzle of olive oil, chopped parsley, or toasted pine nuts, if desired. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Tips for the Best Hummus:
- Use well-drained chickpeas: Excess water will make your hummus watery. Make sure to drain the chickpeas thoroughly before blending.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best: It provides the brightest, most vibrant flavor.
- Don't over-process: Over-processing can make your hummus gummy. Blend until smooth, but don't overdo it.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste and adjust the ingredients to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this hummus ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This hummus tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I add other ingredients?
A: Yes! Feel free to experiment with other spices and flavors. Roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs would be delicious additions.
Q: What can I serve this hummus with?
A: The possibilities are endless! Enjoy it with pita bread, vegetables (carrots, celery, cucumber), crackers, or even as a spread for sandwiches.
This tahini-free hummus recipe is a delightful and easy way to enjoy this classic Mediterranean dip. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Enjoy!
