Homemade Hummus

Certainly! Making homemade hummus is easy and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Here’s a basic recipe for classic homemade hummus:

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt, to taste
• 2 to 3 tablespoons water
• Dash of paprika, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the tahini and lemon juice. Process for about 1 minute, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. This helps to whip the tahini, making the hummus creamier.
2. Add the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt to the whipped tahini and lemon juice. Process for another 30 seconds, or until well combined.
3. Add half of the chickpeas to the food processor and process for 1 minute. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, then add the remaining chickpeas. Process until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
4. While the food processor is running, slowly add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water, until the hummus reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or lemon juice if needed.
6. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with a bit of olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika if desired.
7. Serve the homemade hummus with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or crackers.

Feel free to get creative and customize your hummus by adding ingredients like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs. Enjoy!