Levantine Creamy Silk Hummus Mezze
Exceptionally smooth and velvety, this authentic Levantine-style hummus combines tender chickpeas, rich tahini, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and premium extra virgin olive oil into a luxuriously creamy dip. Finished with paprika, parsley, and a generous drizzle of olive oil, this gourmet hummus is perfect as part of a mezze platter, paired with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, grilled meats, or sandwiches.
Levantine Creamy Silk Hummus Mezze
shopping_basketIngredients
- Cooked Chickpeas2 cans (15 oz each), drained and rinsed
- Baking Soda1/2 tsp
- Tahini1/2 cup
- Fresh Lemon Juice1/4 cup
- Garlic2 cloves
- Ice Water4 to 6 tbsp
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil3 tbsp, plus extra for serving
- Ground Cumin1 tsp
- Fine Sea Salt1 tsp, or to taste
- Smoked Paprika1/2 tsp, for garnish
- Fresh Parsley2 tbsp, finely chopped
- Whole Chickpeas2 tbsp, for garnish
Nutrition Per Serving
Calories
195
Protein
6g
Fat
13g
Carbs
16g
restaurantInstructions
Soften the Chickpeas
Place the drained chickpeas into a saucepan with the baking soda and enough water to cover them. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the chickpeas become very soft. Drain well and rinse under cool water.
Slightly overcooking canned chickpeas creates an exceptionally smooth hummus that rivals restaurant quality.
Prepare the Tahini Base
In a food processor, combine the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and cumin. Blend for about 1 minute until the mixture becomes pale, creamy, and whipped. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Blend the Chickpeas
Add the softened chickpeas to the food processor along with the olive oil. Blend for 2 to 3 minutes until mostly smooth. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to blend until the hummus becomes incredibly silky and fluffy.
Ice water helps emulsify the tahini and creates the signature light, airy texture found in authentic Middle Eastern hummus.
Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the hummus and adjust with additional salt, lemon juice, or cumin if desired. Continue blending for another minute to fully incorporate any additions.
Rest the Hummus
Transfer the hummus to a bowl and allow it to rest for 15 minutes. This short resting period allows the garlic and lemon flavors to mellow and blend beautifully with the tahini.
Create the Presentation
Spread the hummus onto a shallow serving plate using the back of a spoon to create decorative swirls. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil, then garnish with smoked paprika, chopped parsley, and a few whole chickpeas.
Traditional hummus is served on a flat plate rather than in a deep bowl, making it easier to scoop with warm pita bread.
Serve
Serve immediately with warm pita bread, toasted pita chips, fresh cucumber slices, carrots, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, olives, falafel, grilled chicken, or lamb kebabs as part of a classic mezze spread.
Store Leftovers
Transfer leftover hummus to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Before serving again, stir well and top with a fresh drizzle of olive oil to restore its creamy appearance.
Hummus often tastes even better after resting overnight as the flavors continue to develop.
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