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Flavorful Lebanese Hummus Recipe with Zaatar Oil Easy and Perfect

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A simple yet flavorful Lebanese hummus enhanced with a fragrant za’atar oil drizzle and whole chickpeas for texture. Perfect for quick meals, entertaining, and a crowd-pleasing dip.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
  • ½ cup tahini (smooth sesame paste)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil for blending
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for za’atar oil drizzle
  • 2 tablespoons za’atar spice blend (thyme, sumac, sesame seeds)
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ cup whole cooked chickpeas for topping
  • 2 to 4 tablespoons cold water to adjust consistency

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chickpeas: If using dried chickpeas, soak 1 cup overnight, then simmer for 1 to 1½ hours until tender but not mushy. For canned chickpeas, rinse under cold water and drain well. Reserve a few whole chickpeas for garnish.
  2. Make the za’atar oil: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil with 2 tablespoons za’atar spice. Stir gently to mix and let sit while you prepare the hummus.
  3. Blend the hummus base: In your food processor, combine cooked chickpeas (reserve some for topping), tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, 3 tablespoons olive oil, ground cumin, and salt. Pulse to start breaking down the chickpeas.
  4. Add water gradually: With the processor running, add cold water 1 tablespoon at a time until the hummus reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency (usually 2 to 4 tablespoons).
  5. Taste and adjust: Add more lemon juice, garlic, or salt if needed.
  6. Transfer and garnish: Spoon the hummus into your serving dish, smooth the top, add reserved whole chickpeas in the center, then drizzle the za’atar oil over everything.
  7. Serve immediately or chill: Let the hummus sit for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Use canned chickpeas for a quicker version. Adjust water slowly to get the perfect creamy texture. Let hummus rest for at least 30 minutes before serving to deepen flavors. Homemade za’atar oil enhances flavor more than just sprinkling the spice on top. Avoid over-blending to preserve texture and prevent bitterness.

Nutrition

Keywords: hummus, Lebanese hummus, za'atar oil, chickpeas, Middle Eastern dip, tahini, healthy dip, vegan, gluten-free

Find it online: https://perkypan.com/flavorful-lebanese-hummus-recipe-with-zaatar-oil-easy-and-perfect/