When it comes to hummus, everyone has their own favorite preparation. But what if we told you that Yotam Ottolenghi and Sami Tamimi have unlocked the secret to the perfect hummus in their cookbook, Jerusalem? This basic hummus recipe has been hailed as the best hummus ever made, and it just might change your view of the ubiquitous dip for good.
Starting with dried chickpeas, Ottolenghi and Tamimi have perfected the texture and flavor of their hummus. By simmering the chickpeas with baking soda, they scruff up the skins and cook faster, resulting in a smoother and creamier puree. And the finishing touch of drizzling olive oil and lemon juice adds richness and brightness to the final dish.
Key Takeaways
- Yotam Ottolenghi and Sami Tamimi’s basic hummus recipe from Jerusalem is hailed as one of the best ever made.
- Starting with dried chickpeas and simmering them with baking soda creates a smoother and creamier texture.
- Drizzling olive oil and lemon juice adds richness and brightness to the hummus.
- The recipe includes variations with a warm chickpea topping and fried chopped lamb for a show-stopping hummus experience.
- Personalize your hummus with additional spices and toppings to make it your own.
Why Choose Jerusalem Ottolenghi’s Hummus Recipe
One of the most beloved (and contentious) dishes in Jerusalem, hummus is a must-cook recipe from this book. This more elaborate version with lamb and lemon sauce was too enticing to pass up.
“This was hands-down the best hummus I’ve ever made or eaten. Topped with the slightly chewy and rich lamb and drizzled with bright lemon-parsley sauce, this was a dish I couldn’t stop eating.”
What worked: This was hands-down the best hummus I’ve ever made or eaten. Topped with the slightly chewy and rich lamb and drizzled with bright lemon-parsley sauce, this was a dish I couldn’t stop eating.
What didn’t: Nothing. Perfect as written.
Suggested tweaks: If the recipe in its entirety is overwhelming, the hummus component on its own is absolutely worth making. Drizzled with a bit of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon, and you’ll still be in hummus bliss.
Testimonials
Read what others are saying about Jerusalem Ottolenghi’s hummus recipe:
- “This hummus recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is phenomenal.” – Sarah S.
- “I can’t get enough of this hummus. The lamb and lemon sauce take it to a whole new level.” – Alex L.
Personalize Your Hummus
While Ottolenghi’s hummus recipe is fantastic as written, you can also personalize it to suit your taste:
- Add a sprinkle of paprika or cumin for extra flavor.
- Top with roasted red peppers or pine nuts for added texture.
- Experiment with different garnishes like olives or fresh herbs.
The Secret to Perfect Hummus Texture
When it comes to making hummus, achieving the perfect texture is essential. Luckily, Jerusalem Ottolenghi’s recipe holds the secret to creating a creamy and smooth tahini hummus that is simply irresistible.
One of the key techniques used in Jerusalem Ottolenghi’s recipe is starting with dried chickpeas and simmering them with baking soda. This unique step allows the skins of the chickpeas to scruff up, resulting in a faster cooking time and a smoother puree.
By starting with dried chickpeas and following this technique, you can achieve a more authentic taste and texture in your hummus. The result is a velvety smooth tahini hummus that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.
The Essential Ingredients for Authentic Hummus
When it comes to making authentic hummus, the right ingredients are essential. For a Middle Eastern hummus that truly captures the flavors and textures of the region, you’ll need the following key components:
| Ingredients |
|---|
| Dried Chickpeas |
| Tahini Paste |
| Lemon Juice |
| Garlic |
| Ice-Cold Water |
To create the creamy consistency and rich flavor that Ottolenghi hummus is known for, it’s important to use high-quality tahini paste and freshly squeezed lemon juice. These ingredients enhance the taste of the hummus and give it a distinct Middle Eastern flair.
The combination of dried chickpeas, tahini paste, lemon juice, garlic, and ice-cold water is what sets homemade hummus apart from store-bought versions. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
So, next time you’re craving a delicious and authentic Middle Eastern chickpea dip, make sure to gather these essential ingredients. Your homemade hummus will be a flavorful masterpiece that will impress even the most discerning palates.
The Step-by-Step Hummus Recipe from Jerusalem Ottolenghi
To make the Jerusalem Ottolenghi hummus, follow these simple steps:
- Start by soaking the dried chickpeas overnight.
- Cook the soaked chickpeas with baking soda until they are tender and easily mashed.
- Drain the chickpeas and blend them with tahini paste, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and ice-cold water until you get a smooth and creamy paste.
- Let the hummus rest for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
This foolproof recipe guarantees a delicious and authentic hummus that will impress your family and friends. Just a few simple steps and you’ll have a bowl of creamy hummus ready to be enjoyed!
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried chickpeas | 1 cup |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Tahini paste | 1/4 cup |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ice-cold water | 1/4 cup |
Get ready to experience the true flavors of Jerusalem with this authentic hummus recipe from Ottolenghi. It’s the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion!
Tips and Variations for Personalizing Your Hummus
While the Jerusalem Ottolenghi hummus recipe is delicious on its own, you can personalize it to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for an extra punch of flavor or wanting to add some texture and visual appeal, here are some tips and variations to take your homemade hummus to the next level:
- Add additional spices like cumin or paprika to enhance the flavors of your hummus.
- Top your hummus with ingredients like roasted red peppers, olives, or pine nuts for added texture and visual appeal.
- For a tangy twist, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over your hummus before serving.
- Try blending in roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes for unique flavor combinations.
- Experiment with different herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or dill to add freshness to your hummus.
- For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and make the hummus your own. The possibilities are endless!
“Personalizing your hummus is the secret to creating a truly memorable homemade dip.” – We
Hummus Variations
| Variation | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Red Pepper Hummus | Homemade hummus, roasted red peppers, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil | Blend all ingredients until smooth. Top with chopped roasted red peppers. |
| Mediterranean Olive Hummus | Homemade hummus, kalamata olives, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil | Blend all ingredients until smooth. Garnish with chopped olives. |
| Pesto Hummus | Homemade hummus, basil pesto, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil | Blend all ingredients until smooth. Swirl pesto on top of the hummus. |
| Spicy Chipotle Hummus | Homemade hummus, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil | Blend all ingredients until smooth. Add chipotle peppers for heat. |
Conclusion
Making basic hummus from Jerusalem Ottolenghi’s recipe is a worthwhile endeavor. The use of quality ingredients and the cooking techniques described in the recipe result in a hummus that is creamy, flavorful, and authentic.
Whether you enjoy it on its own or with added toppings, this homemade hummus is sure to impress. The traditional flavors of Middle Eastern hummus shine through, offering a delightful taste experience.
So why settle for store-bought hummus when you can easily make your own? With Jerusalem Ottolenghi’s recipe, you can create a batch of hummus that surpasses any pre-packaged options. Serve it at parties, enjoy it as a snack, or use it as a delicious spread for sandwiches and wraps. The possibilities are endless.
Try your hand at making this basic hummus from Jerusalem Ottolenghi’s recipe and discover the rich flavors and velvety texture that make it so special. Once you’ve experienced the joy of homemade hummus, you’ll never go back.