Simple Hummus

Hummus is the epitome of vegan foods. Creamy, addictive, and full of protein, it’s a great dip for any occasion: game night, a Mediterranean themed lunch or dinner, or just as a snack to have on hand when you get the munchies.

There are as many recipes for hummus as there are people on the earth. This one is one of the simpler kinds. Back when I couldn’t find tahini at the grocery store, I had to use peanut butter as a substitute. Turns out, even years later, I still prefer peanut butter in my hummus. And after trying out this recipe, maybe you will too!

Tips and Tricks

How much garlic?

I love a little garlic in my hummus, but careful how much you add! Even two small cloves can make the garlic overpowering and leave an aftertaste in your mouth that doesn’t go away easily. My advice: stick with one small clove and taste test. You can always add more later.

Consistency of hummus

This recipe should ideally create a mayonnaise-like hummus in consistency. If it feels pasty, add more olive oil to loosen it up.

If you have the opposite problem and it’s too runny, add some more peanut butter, a few more chickpeas, or a touch of flour.

Peanut Butter?

As mentioned above, this recipe calls for peanut butter instead of the usual tahini. If you prefer tahini, or don’t have peanut butter on hand, feel free to swap out.

Ingredients:

  • 1 can chickpeas, liquid reserved

  • 1 small clove garlic

  • 2 - 3 tablespoons smooth peanut butter

  • 1 tsp kosher salt

  • 1/2 tsp pepper

  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley

  • 1/3 cup olive oil

Directions:

Place your chickpeas the bowl of a blender (you can also use a bowl and an immersion blender instead) along with half of the aquafaba (or liquid from the can). Add the garlic clove. Blend until smooth. (Note: it doesn’t need to be completely smooth, as you’ll be blending this more when you add the other ingredients).

Add the peanut butter, salt, pepper, and parsley leaves. Blend until it forms a thick paste.

Slowly add in the olive oil as you blend. The hummus should have the consistency of mayonnaise. Adjust as needed until the hummus is just right. Taste test for seasonings and add whatever is missing.

Serve!