Hummus

If you’re still buying hummus from the store, not only are you spending way more money than you need to for hummus, but you’re missing out on the endless options of making it yourself. It’s quick, easy, and delicious to make your own hummus, so give it a try!

Note: Shelling your chickpeas is optional but highly recommended. The end result of shelled chickpeas is a very smooth and creamy hummus. If you don’t mind a slightly more grainy texture to your hummus, you can use the chickpeas straight from the can. We have found the easiest way to shell chickpeas is in a pot of water, discarding the shells and moving the shelled chickpeas one by one into a new bowl, to ensure you haven’t missed any. It typically takes us 5-10 minutes to shell a can of chickpeas.

1. Blend tahini and lemon juice in the food processor for 1 minute.
2. Scrape down bowl and add olive oil, cumin, salt, and garlic. Process for 30 seconds. Scrape down bowl and process for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Add half the shelled chickpeas and process for 1 minute.
4. Add the remaining chickpeas and process for an additional minute.
5. Scrape down bowl sides and process, adding water until desired thickness.
6. Transfer to container and top with paprika.

Make this recipe your own by adding whatever sort of flavors you want. Enjoy roasted red pepper hummus? Throw in a few roasted red peppers, either from a jar or ones that you’ve roasted yourself. Not a fan of Harissa? Use another one of alla vita’s flavored olive oils that better suits your taste. Maybe you like your hummus a little more lumpy than creamy. Simply don’t process it for too long to leave some bits of chickpea whole. The possibilities of homemade hummus are literally endless. Tell us what variations you’ve tried in the comments below or by sharing photos on Instagram with us using hashtag #economicaleats.