Hummus and Tahini

Jordanian Hummus and Tahini Recipe with Garbanzo Beans and Spices

Region / culture: Jordan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Hummus and tahini is a classic Middle Eastern dish that has gained popularity all over the world for its creamy texture and delicious flavor. This recipe combines the nutty taste of tahini with the earthy flavor of chickpeas, creating a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a dip, spread, or filling.

History

Hummus and tahini have been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. The exact origins of the dish are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in ancient Egypt. The combination of chickpeas and sesame seeds has been a popular food pairing in the region for thousands of years.

Ingredients

2 cups raw garbanzo beans or 3 cans chickpeas
2 – 3 garlic cloves or more
0.5 tsp hot paprika
pinch of cayenne pepper
0.5 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
0.25 cup lemon juice

Seasoning mixture

1 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cumin seed
0.5 tsp black pepper
0.5 tsp ground turmeric
0.5 tsp ground coriander seed
2 tbsp dried and minced parsley
0.25 tsp ground cayenne

How to prepare

To make the hummus, start by soaking two cups of raw garbanzo beans overnight in water. Make sure to add enough water to cover the beans.
The next day, drain the soaked beans and place them in a pot. Add more water to cover the beans and bring to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer the beans until they are tender.
Once the beans are cooked, drain them but make sure to reserve the liquid. Set aside a small handful of beans for garnishing.
In a blender or food processor, combine the cooked beans, seasonings, and tahini. Blend until smooth, adding some of the reserved bean liquid to achieve a thick, creamy consistency.
Transfer the hummus to a bowl and add the following garnishes: drizzle with Greek olive oil, sprinkle with paprika, and garnish with chopped parsley or sliced red onion.
For an extra touch, top the bowl of hummus with a handful of the reserved whole beans.
Serve the hummus as a dip with nacho chips or pita triangles, or stuff it into pita bread with sprouts for a delicious sandwich.

Variations

Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful twist.
Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint for a burst of freshness.
Top with toasted pine nuts or almonds for added crunch.
Blend in roasted garlic for a rich and savory flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the chickpeas overnight helps to soften them and reduce cooking time.

- Reserve some of the cooking liquid from the chickpeas to achieve the desired consistency of the hummus.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, adding more or less of the spices as needed.

- Garnish the hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the hummus and tahini with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or crackers for a healthy and satisfying snack. You can also use it as a spread on sandwiches or wraps for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor or blender to achieve a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences, adding more or less of the spices as needed.

- Garnish the hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute canned chickpeas for raw chickpeas to save time.

- Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a substitute for tahini.

- Replace lemon juice with vinegar or lime juice for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Hummus and tahini can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply give it a stir before serving to recombine the ingredients.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the hummus in a decorative bowl and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and fresh herbs. - Arrange a variety of colorful vegetables around the hummus for a beautiful and appetizing presentation. - Top the hummus with a handful of reserved whole chickpeas for added texture and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the hummus and tahini with a side of tabbouleh salad for a fresh and flavorful meal.

- Pair with grilled meats or kebabs for a complete and satisfying meal.

- Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a perfect summer snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover hummus and tahini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or let it come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of hummus and tahini contains around 200 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or meal.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of hummus and tahini contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the chickpeas and tahini, which are both rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates.

Fats

Hummus and tahini are a good source of healthy fats, with each serving containing around 10 grams of fat. The sesame seed paste (tahini) provides most of the fat content, which is primarily unsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

This dish is a good source of plant-based proteins, with each serving containing approximately 8 grams of protein. The chickpeas and tahini both contribute to the protein content, making this a satisfying and nutritious dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Hummus and tahini are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6. These nutrients are essential for energy production, muscle function, and overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains sesame seeds, which are a common allergen. If you have a sesame seed allergy, you can omit the tahini or substitute it with another nut or seed butter.

Summary

Hummus and tahini are a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a dip, spread, or filling, making it a great addition to any meal.

Summary

Hummus and tahini is a versatile and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. Whether enjoyed as a dip, spread, or filling, this classic Middle Eastern dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Experiment with different seasonings and garnishes to create your own unique twist on this traditional recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Maria who had just returned from a trip to the Middle East. She invited me over for a meal and as soon as I walked into her kitchen, the aroma of spices and herbs filled the air.

Maria was busy chopping vegetables and blending ingredients in her food processor. She smiled and greeted me warmly, saying, "I'm making hummus and tahini for lunch. Have you ever tried it before?" I shook my head, intrigued by the exotic names.

As I watched her work, Maria shared with me the origins of these dishes and how they were a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. She explained how hummus was made from cooked chickpeas, tahini (a paste made from sesame seeds), garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Tahini, on the other hand, was a rich and creamy sauce made from sesame seeds, garlic, lemon juice, and water.

I was fascinated by the simplicity of the ingredients and the complex flavors they created when combined. Maria generously shared her recipes with me, encouraging me to try making them at home.

Back in my own kitchen, I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work. I soaked the chickpeas overnight and cooked them until they were tender. I then drained them and blended them in my food processor along with the tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. The result was a smooth and creamy hummus that was bursting with flavor.

Next, I made the tahini sauce by blending sesame seeds, garlic, lemon juice, and water until it was thick and luscious. I drizzled it over the hummus and garnished it with a sprinkle of paprika and a drizzle of olive oil.

I couldn't wait to taste my creations. I scooped up a generous spoonful of hummus with a piece of pita bread and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the nuttiness of the tahini, the tanginess of the lemon juice, and the earthiness of the chickpeas all blended together perfectly.

I was hooked. From that moment on, hummus and tahini became regulars on my table. I experimented with different ingredients, adding roasted red peppers, roasted garlic, and fresh herbs to create variations of the classic recipes.

Over the years, I shared my love for hummus and tahini with friends and family, serving them at gatherings and potlucks. They were always a hit, with people coming back for seconds and even asking for the recipes.

As I continued to make these dishes, I learned to appreciate the versatility of hummus and tahini. They were not just dips for pita bread, but also great as spreads on sandwiches, dressings for salads, and toppings for grilled meats and vegetables.

I also learned about the health benefits of these dishes. Chickpeas are high in protein and fiber, tahini is rich in healthy fats and calcium, and both are packed with vitamins and minerals. They are a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal.

As I grew older, I passed down the recipes for hummus and tahini to my children and grandchildren. I taught them the importance of cooking with love and sharing food with others. I told them stories of my friend Maria and how she inspired me to explore new flavors and cuisines.

Now, whenever my family gathers for a meal, we always have a bowl of hummus and tahini on the table. It is a reminder of the bonds we share and the memories we have created together.

So, the next time you're looking for a dish that is simple yet flavorful, try making hummus and tahini. You never know, it might just become a favorite in your household too.