Hummus bi Tahini (Chickpea and Sesame Spread/Dip)

Indulge in the timeless appeal of Hummus bi Tahini, a smooth and nutty dip rooted in the rich culinary traditions of the Middle East and Greece.
Made with tender chickpeas, robust tahini, and bright lemon juice, this versatile spread is perfect as a dip, a sandwich filler, or a complement to grilled meats and fresh salads.

Rich in protein and naturally gluten-free, Hummus bi Tahini is as nutritious as it is delicious. Pair it with warm pita bread, crisp vegetables, or crackers for a snack that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, this recipe is a must-have for lovers of Mediterranean cuisine

Ingredients

For Soaking Chickpeas (soaked overnight):

⦁ 9 oz (1.5 cups) dried chickpeas
⦁ 3 cups water
 

For Cooking Chickpeas:

⦁ 1 Tbsp olive oil
⦁ 4 garlic cloves, minced
⦁ 2 oz white onion, minced
⦁ Soaked chickpeas (drained)
⦁ 4 cups water
⦁ 2 bay leaves
⦁ 2 tsp salt 

For Puréeing the Hummus:

⦁ Cooked chickpea mixture (drained)
⦁ 5 oz tahini
⦁ 3 fl oz lemon juice
⦁ 5 fl oz extra virgin olive oil
⦁ Salt and pepper to taste 

Cooking Directions

1. Soak Chickpeas: One day in advance, soak the chickpeas in water to rehydrate. Drain before cooking.

2. Cook Chickpeas: In a pot, sweat garlic and onions in olive oil until translucent. Add chickpeas, water, bay leaves, and salt. Simmer until the chickpeas are tender, adding water as needed.

3. Purée the Hummus: Strain excess moisture from the cooked chickpeas and transfer to a food processor. Add tahini and lemon juice. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil to create a smooth paste.

4. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper. Serve chilled or at room temperature with pita, vegetables, or crackers. 

Tips

🛒 Choosing Ingredients:
✔ Use high-quality chickpeas – Dried chickpeas soaked overnight give the best texture.
✔ Opt for authentic tahini – A smooth, high-quality sesame paste enhances the creaminess.
✔ Fresh lemon juice is key – Adds brightness and balances the richness.
✔ Use fresh garlic – Roasted or raw, depending on your preferred intensity.

👩‍🍳 Preparation:
✔ Soak & cook chickpeas properly – Simmer until soft for ultra-smooth hummus.
✔ Peel chickpeas for extra creaminess – Rubbing them in a towel helps remove skins.
✔ Blend tahini & lemon juice first – Creates a light, whipped base before adding chickpeas.
✔ Use ice-cold water – Helps make hummus extra fluffy and smooth.

🍳 Cooking:
✔ Simmer chickpeas with baking soda – Softens them and breaks down skins easily.
✔ Blend longer than you think – 2-3 minutes ensures a silky texture.
✔ Adjust consistency gradually – Add cold water or chickpea broth as needed.
✔ Taste and adjust – Balance salt, lemon, and tahini for the perfect flavor.

📦 Storage:
✔ Store in an airtight container in the fridge – Stays fresh for up to 5 days.
✔ Drizzle with olive oil before storing – Keeps it from drying out.
✔ Freeze in portions for up to 3 months – Thaw overnight in the fridge.
✔ Stir well after refrigeration – Brings back the creamy consistency.

🍽 Serving:
✔ Drizzle with olive oil & sprinkle paprika or sumac – Classic finishing touches.
✔ Pair with warm pita, fresh veggies, or falafel – Perfect for dipping.
✔ Top with pine nuts or fresh herbs – Adds texture and flavor.
✔ Serve at room temperature – Enhances the taste and smoothness.

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