Authentic Middle Eastern Hummus (Chummus)

Recipe View 1 hrs 45 mins Rinse the soaked garbanzo beans and place them in a large pot. Cover generously with fresh water, ensuring the water level is at least 1 inch above the beans. Add a pinch of baking soda to aid in softening the beans. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. (1.5 - 2 hours)

Recipe View 5 mins Continue simmering until the beans are exceptionally soft and easily mashed. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid – this will be your secret to creamy hummus. Also, set aside a small handful of whole cooked beans for garnish. (5 mins)

Recipe View 5 mins Drain the remaining cooked beans. In a high-powered blender or food processor, combine the drained beans with 1/2 cup of extra-virgin olive oil. Begin blending, gradually adding reserved cooking liquid as needed to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. (5 mins)

Recipe View 3 mins Once the mixture is perfectly smooth, add the tahini paste and lemon juice. Blend again until fully incorporated. Introduce the minced garlic, cumin, and salt. Blend until evenly distributed, adjusting the amount of garlic, lemon juice, and salt to your personal taste. (3 mins)

Recipe View 2 mins Transfer the hummus to a shallow serving dish, spreading it evenly across the surface. Garnish artfully with the reserved whole garbanzo beans. Finish with a generous drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Serve immediately, while still warm, with warm pita bread, crisp raw onion slices, or crudités. (2 mins)