Humus

A creamy and tangy starter that captures the essence of Turkey with every bite!

Enjoy your delicious Turkish Meze.

serving 4 People

time 15 min

INGREDIENTS

• 400 grams chickpeas

• 4 garlic cloves

• 100 grams tahini

• 1 small lemon juice

• 100 ml olive oil

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon cumin powder

• 15 grams chopped parsley

• 100 grams pomegranate seeds

• 300 grams pita bread cut into triangles

How to Cook

1. Soak chickpeas in water overnight to ensure they are properly hydrated and softened. This soaking process not only reduces the cooking time significantly but also helps in achieving a creamier texture once they are blended. For optimal results, use a large bowl and cover the chickpeas with plenty of water, as they will expand as they absorb moisture. It is advisable to use dried chickpeas rather than canned ones for this recipe to achieve the best flavor and consistency.

2. Boil chickpeas until they are fully cooked, which typically takes about 1 to 2 hours depending on the size and age of the chickpeas. You can add a pinch of salt to the water to enhance the flavor during cooking. To check for doneness, simply take a chickpea and press it between your fingers; it should be soft and mashable. Once cooked, drain the chickpeas and allow them to cool slightly before proceeding to the next step.

3. In a high-powered blender, combine the roasted chickpeas, which can be prepared by roasting them in the oven until they are golden and slightly crispy, along with fresh garlic cloves, creamy tahini, freshly squeezed lemon juice, high-quality olive oil, a pinch of salt, and ground cumin for an aromatic touch. Blend these ingredients together until smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little water or extra olive oil to achieve your desired consistency.

4. Garnish the final mixture with a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor, and add some vibrant pomegranate seeds for a delightful crunch and a burst of sweetness. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal of the dish but also provide additional layers of flavor that complement the creamy base.

5. Serve the prepared chickpea blend, often referred to as hummus, alongside warm, toasted pita bread. To toast the pita, you can cut it into wedges and place it in the oven for a few minutes until it is crisp and golden. This pairing creates a delicious and satisfying appetizer or snack that can be enjoyed at any gathering or as part of a meal. For a complete experience, consider adding a drizzle of olive oil over the hummus before serving, along with a few extra pomegranate seeds and parsley for an inviting presentation.

Humus

PROTIPS

For a creamier hummus, add a tablespoon of water while blending

For a spicier hummus, add a pinch of red pepper flakes