Instructions

Step 1: Drain and rinse the chickpeas. Place them in the bowl of a food processor along with the smashed garlic clove. Process for several minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as necessary to achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 2: Add the tahini and lemon juice to the chickpea puree and process briefly to combine.

Step 3: Add the basil leaves and process for another couple of minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is very smooth.

Step 4: With the machine running, drizzle in some ice water to loosen the hummus. Season with salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Spread the hummus into a shallow bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Step 6: To make pita chips, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 7: Cut pita bread into small triangles and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and lightly sprinkle with onion salt, za’atar, and sesame seeds.

Step 8: Bake for a few minutes, watching closely, until the bread is browned. Flip the triangles and bake for a few more minutes. For extra crispiness, brush the second side with olive oil before continuing to bake.

Step 9: Serve the hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkling of za’atar or paprika, and lemon wedges alongside the crispy pita chips.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh basil for the best flavor, but if unavailable, you can substitute with fresh spinach for a milder taste.

Add a pinch of sumac on top for a tangy finish.

For a smoother texture, peel the chickpeas before blending.

Experiment with different spices on the pita chips, like smoked paprika or cumin, to customize your flavor.

Storage

Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before serving, stir well and add a little olive oil if the texture has thickened. Pita chips are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days to maintain crispness.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to soak and cook dried chickpeas until tender before using. This will improve the texture and flavor of your hummus.

How do I keep the hummus from being too thick or dry?

Adding ice-cold water while blending helps loosen the hummus to a creamy texture. You can also adjust by adding more lemon juice or olive oil as needed.