Food processor or blender For that signature smooth consistency.
Baking sheet & foil/parchment To roast garlic until perfectly caramelized.
Spatula To scrape every last bit of hummus from the processor.
Measuring spoons and cups Spices in hummus are balanced in small but impactful amounts.
Serving bowl Ideally shallow, so the hummus can be spread out, garnished, and scooped easily.
Ingredients
2cupscooked chickpeasor 1 can, drained and rinsed
1head garlicroasted (10–12 caramelized cloves)
3tablespoonstahinistirred until smooth
2tablespoonsextra-virgin olive oilplus more for garnish
Juice of 1 large lemon
Zest of ½ lemonoptional, adds brightness
1 ½teaspoonsground cumin
½teaspoonground coriander
½teaspoonsmoked paprikaplus extra for garnish
¼teaspooncayenne pepperoptional for a spicy moroccan hummus
½teaspoonsea saltor more to taste
2–4 tablespoons ice waterto adjust creaminess
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Drizzle of harissa oiloptional for extra smokiness
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Garlic
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice off the top of a garlic head, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and wrap it in foil. Roast on a baking sheet for 35 minutes until the cloves turn golden and buttery-soft. Let it cool slightly, then squeeze out the roasted cloves.
Step 2: Prep the Chickpeas
Drain and rinse canned chickpeas, or use home-cooked ones for that authentic hummus recipe middle east texture. For a velvety hummus, peel the skins by rubbing chickpeas under running water, but this is optional.
Step 3: Blend the Base
In a food processor, combine chickpeas, roasted garlic, tahini, lemon juice, zest, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne, and salt. Pulse until combined.
Step 4: Adjust Texture
While blending, drizzle in olive oil followed by ice water, a tablespoon at a time. Ice water aerates the hummus, making it creamy and light.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Check the seasoning. Add more lemon for acidity, salt for depth, or spices for warmth.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Spread the hummus in a shallow bowl, drizzle with olive oil or harissa oil, sprinkle with paprika, and scatter fresh herbs on top.