This delightful recipe for Middle Eastern hummus paired with pita chips is one of my favorite snacks. It’s not only simple to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Hummus is a creamy spread made from chickpeas and tahini, while pita chips add a satisfying crunch. Let me walk you through the steps to create this yummy dish!
First, I gather all the ingredients for the hummus. Here’s what I need:
- 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup of tahini
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- 1-2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 2-3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed for consistency
Next, I prepare the hummus by combining the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin in my food processor. I blend everything together until it’s well combined. If the mixture is too thick, I add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until I achieve my desired creamy consistency. This is a great time to taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt or lemon juice if needed.
Once I’ve blended the hummus to my liking, I transfer it to a serving bowl and drizzle some extra virgin olive oil on top. I also like to sprinkle a bit of paprika or sumac for added flavor and garnish. Now, let’s move on to the pita chips!
For the pita chips, I usually start with a few pita breads. I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet. Here’s how I make the chips:
- Cut each pita bread into wedges or strips.
- In a bowl, I drizzle the pita pieces with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, or any spices I enjoy (like paprika or za’atar).
- I lay the pita pieces flat on the baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. I keep an eye on them to ensure they become crispy but don’t burn.
Once the pita chips are golden and crispy, I remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of my labor! I serve the hummus alongside the freshly baked pita chips, perfect for dipping.
This combination of Middle Eastern hummus and pita chips is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fiber, while olive oil adds healthy fats. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do—it’s a true classic!
