Best Homemade Hummus

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Creamy, nutty, and rich with the bright tang of lemon and a hint of garlic, this is the Best Homemade Hummus you’ll ever dip into. It takes less than 10 minutes, and you’ll end up with a silky-smooth spread that puts store-bought versions to shame. Whether you’re scooping it up with warm pita or dolloping it onto a salad bowl, this hummus brings the perfect balance of comfort and bold Mediterranean flavor.

What makes this recipe a winner is the simplicity. With a handful of pantry staples and a good food processor, you’ll have a versatile dip that’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and full of good-for-you ingredients. Serve it as part of a mezze platter, slather it on sandwiches, or even toss a spoonful into pasta for a creamy twist.

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What Kind of Chickpeas Should I Use?

You can use canned chickpeas or cook your own from dry. For ultra-creamy hummus, removing the chickpea skins makes a big difference—but it’s optional if you’re short on time. Canned chickpeas offer convenience and still deliver great results. If you want to level up the creaminess, warm the chickpeas briefly before blending.

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Ingredients for the Best Homemade Hummus

Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans): These are the heart of the hummus. Soft, starchy, and mild in flavor, they give the dip its creamy texture.

Tahini: This sesame seed paste is key to achieving that nutty, rich depth. Make sure it’s smooth and runny for the best blend.

Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds a fresh, tangy brightness that balances the richness of tahini.

Garlic: One small clove goes a long way to infuse the hummus with zesty flavor. You can use roasted garlic if you prefer a milder taste.

Olive Oil: A drizzle during blending adds body and richness. Plus, it’s perfect as a finishing touch.

Ice Water: This helps create that fluffy, whipped texture we love in restaurant-style hummus.

Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors.

Ground Cumin (Optional): For a warm, earthy undertone that complements the chickpeas beautifully.

Paprika + Fresh Herbs (for topping): These aren’t just for looks—they add a little extra flavor and a pop of color.

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How To Make the Best Homemade Hummus

Step 1: Prep the Chickpeas

Drain and rinse your canned chickpeas. For extra creamy hummus, you can peel off the skins or briefly simmer them in water with a pinch of baking soda to soften them.

Step 2: Blend the Tahini and Lemon Juice

In a food processor, combine tahini and fresh lemon juice. Blend for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and whipped. This step helps create a creamy base.

Step 3: Add Garlic, Salt, and Cumin

Add the garlic, salt, and optional cumin to the whipped tahini-lemon base. Process again until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Add the Chickpeas

Add half of the chickpeas to the food processor and blend for 1 minute. Then add the remaining chickpeas and continue blending. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 5: Add Ice Water and Olive Oil

With the processor running, slowly drizzle in a few tablespoons of ice water and olive oil. Keep blending until the hummus becomes ultra-smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste your hummus and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more lemon juice for tang, salt for flavor, or water for a softer texture.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the hummus into a shallow bowl. Create a swirl in the center with the back of a spoon and drizzle with olive oil. Top with paprika, chopped parsley, or even toasted pine nuts for a little crunch.

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How to Serve and Store This Hummus

This hummus is perfect served as a dip with warm pita bread, crunchy veggies, or crackers. You can also spread it on sandwiches, wraps, or even spoon it onto grain bowls for a creamy, tangy accent. Hosting a party? Add it to a mezze platter alongside olives, roasted red peppers, and falafel for a Mediterranean moment.

To store, keep your hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors even deepen as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option. If it thickens too much in the fridge, just stir in a spoonful of water or olive oil to bring it back to its creamy glory.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make hummus smoother?

Use ice-cold water when blending, and whip the tahini with lemon juice before adding other ingredients. Peeling the chickpeas can also help!

Can I freeze homemade hummus?

Yes! Store it in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving.

What can I use instead of tahini?

Try smooth almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a slightly different flavor that still offers creaminess.

Is hummus healthy?

Absolutely. It’s high in plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats from tahini and olive oil. Just keep portions balanced if you’re watching calories.

Why does my hummus taste bitter?

Sometimes tahini can have a bitter aftertaste. Be sure to use a high-quality brand and balance the flavors with lemon juice and salt.

Can I make it without a food processor?

Yes, but it will be a bit more rustic. Use a high-speed blender or mash everything thoroughly by hand. A smoother texture might be harder to achieve.

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Want More Dip & Appetizer Ideas?

If this Best Homemade Hummus is a hit in your kitchen, here are a few other flavorful options to keep the snack table interesting:

• Try the Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers with Hot Pepper Jelly for a savory-sweet bite: Cheesy Thumbprint Appetizers
• These Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes are hearty enough for dinner but work great as a party snack too: Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
• Add some crunch with the Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies —a perfect side or shareable nibble: Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies
• Keep things fresh with the Super Crunch Salad, loaded with texture and color: Super Crunch Salad
• Or whip up a batch of Homemade Naan Bread to go with your hummus and take things to the next level: Homemade Naan Bread

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board dedicated to dips, spreads, or Mediterranean favorites so it’s always at your fingertips.

And let me know in the comments how it turned out! Did you go the extra mile and peel the chickpeas? Add a swirl of roasted red pepper or extra lemon?

I love seeing the unique spins you put on these recipes. Got questions? Drop them below—we’re all here to help each other make flavor-forward food.

For more easy, delicious ideas like this, head over to my Pinterest page: Life with Nina on Pinterest

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