Traditional Hummus 5 Ways
One classic hummus recipe transformed into 4 colorful, fun, and tasty spreads.
Be prepared to take hummus to a whole other level …
These 4 versions are basically the most colorful takes on a very classic hummus recipe.
Chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. The marriage of these flavors creates a smooth, lightly tangy, nutty spread that is enjoyed by many all over the world.
Hummus has been around for thousands of years and used in many different regions in the Middle East and Mediterranean. Each region has its own take on it; sometimes using different spices like cumin or adding yogurt to it. Regardless of the way it is prepared, hummus is always a hit!
Let’s be real, you have probably found yourself at one point or another elbows-deep in a bowl of hummus. Its just that good. And addicting. Its also not to bad for you, nutritious even (when eaten in moderation). It’s a win-win situation.
OK, now that I convinced you that hummus is the way to go, let’s get to the recipes.
These recipes take 1 classic hummus recipe and transform it into vibrant and delicious variations.
It all starts with a traditional hummus. Cook the chickpeas yourself instead of using canned. Trust me, its worth it. The key here is cooking the death out of the chickpeas. There’s no such thing as overcooking here. As soon as you think you can’t possibly cook them any more, keep cooking them. Also a secret ingredient aka baking soda is your friend here. It softens the chickpea which created the smoothest, silkiest hummus ever.
Here are my 4 versions …
…Green. I have tried different takes of green hummus before. Edamame, avocado, but sweet peas are my favorites.
…Pink. This is probably the prettiest one of them all. Roasted beets add a beautiful and vibrant color.
…Orange. This is my personal favorite! Roasted red pepper and paprika add a smoky flavor which is to die for!
…Yellow. Carrots and turmeric transform a nutritious snack into a nutrient powerhouse.
You can make all 5 versions, or just pick your favorite … but the more the better!
Remember yesterday’s recipe for Traditional Pita Bread? Cut them up into wedges, drizzle with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, sprinkle whatever you want one top (paprika, garlic powder, etc.), and bake. There you go, now you made homemade pita chips. See, not that hard?
Serve the hummus with pita chips and sliced veggies. This is perfect for parties, or football games. Your guests will be amazed!
Traditional Hummus
Ingredients
- 1 pound dry chickpeas soaked overnight and drained
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 6 tbsp lemon juice
- 6 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Place the soaked and drained chickpeas in a large pot. Fill pot with two inches of cold water.
- Add salt and baking soda. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until chickpeas are soft, about 45-50 minutes.
- Drain the chickpeas, reserving 2 tbsp of the cooking liquid.
- Transfer the cooked chickpeas to a food processor. Add the reserved cooking liquid, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper.
- Puree until smooth.
- Transfer to a bowl and garnish with olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika.
Hummus: 4 Variations
Ingredients
Green
- 3/4 cup sweet green peas
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups traditional hummus
Pink
- 1/2 medium roasted beet
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups traditional hummus
Orange
- 1/2 roasted red pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 1/2 cups traditional hummus
Yellow
- 1/2 medium carrot grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 1/2 cups traditional hummus
Instructions
Green
- Puree peas, olive oil, and lemon juice in a small food processor or blender until smooth. Add hummus and blend until combined.
Pink
- Puree beets, olive oil, and vinegar in a small food processor or blender until smooth. Add hummus and blend until well combined.
Orange
- Puree roasted red pepper, olive oil, and paprika in a small food processor or blender until smooth. Add hummus and blend until well combined.
Yellow
- Puree carrot, olive oil, and turmeric in a small food processor or blender until smooth. Add hummus and blend until well combined.
Sounds delicious ! Will try !