Ever crave that creamy, irresistible Sabra hummus from the store but wondered if you could whip it up at home? I totally get it! There’s something special about creating your favorite dips right in your own kitchen.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can achieve that perfect blend of smooth tahini, zesty lemon, and rich olive oil. Plus, making it yourself means you can tweak the flavors to match your taste. Whether you’re preparing for a party or just want a healthy snack, this copycat Sabra hummus recipe has got you covered.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt, to taste
- 2 to 3 tablespoons water
- Paprika, for garnish
Tools and Equipment
Creating the perfect Sabra hummus at home requires a few essential tools and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
Food Processor or High-Powered Blender
- Achieves the smooth, creamy texture characteristic of Sabra hummus.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like lemon juice, tahini, and spices.
Can Opener
- Easily opens canned chickpeas without damaging them.
Knife and Cutting Board
- For mincing garlic and preparing any fresh ingredients.
Spatula
- Helps scrape down the sides of the food processor for thorough blending.
Mixing Bowl
- Ideal for combining ingredients before processing, if needed.
Fine Mesh Sieve (Optional)
- Removes chickpea skins for an extra smooth hummus texture.
- Perfect for presenting your homemade hummus with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika.
Having these tools on hand will streamline the hummus-making process and help you achieve that authentic Sabra flavor every time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing your Sabra-style hummus ahead of time is a fantastic way to ensure you always have a delicious dip ready for any occasion. Here’s how I do it:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. Make the Hummus | Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth and creamy. |
| 2. Transfer to Container | Pour the hummus into an airtight container. Use a spatula to smooth the top, minimizing air exposure. |
| 3. Refrigerate | Place the container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen. |
| 4. Freeze (Optional) | For longer storage, hummus freezes well. Use a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. |
| 5. Thaw and Refresh | When ready to serve, thaw the hummus in the refrigerator overnight. Stir well and drizzle with a bit of fresh olive oil to restore its creamy texture. Optionally, add a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs before serving. |
By following these steps, you can enjoy homemade Sabra-style hummus anytime without the last-minute rush.
Instructions
Creating my copycat Sabra hummus is a delightful process that results in a creamy and flavorful dip perfect for any occasion. Follow these steps to bring this classic favorite to your kitchen.
Prepare Ingredients
- Drain and Rinse Chickpeas: Open a 15-ounce can of chickpeas. Pour them into a colander and rinse under cold water to remove any excess sodium.
- Optional – Remove Chickpea Skins: For an extra smooth texture, gently rub the chickpeas between your hands to loosen the skins. Discard the skins as they float to the surface.
- Gather Fresh Ingredients: Measure out 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup tahini, 1-2 cloves of garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Blend Ingredients
- Combine Base Ingredients: In your food processor, add the rinsed chickpeas, fresh lemon juice, tahini, minced garlic, and ground cumin.
- Process Until Smooth: Pulse the mixture until it becomes creamy and smooth. This may take about 1-2 minutes depending on your processor.
- Add Olive Oil and Water: While the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil. If the hummus is too thick, add water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Achieve Perfect Texture: Continue blending until the hummus is silky and free of lumps.
Adjust Seasoning
- Taste and Season: Sample your hummus and add salt to taste. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add a bit more lemon juice.
- Enhance Flavors: For additional depth, consider adding a pinch of paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper and blend briefly to incorporate.
- Final Blend: Give the hummus one last blend to ensure all seasonings are well mixed.
Serve
- Transfer to Serving Bowl: Spoon the smooth hummus into a shallow bowl, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Garnish: Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top and sprinkle with paprika for a pop of color and flavor.
- Accompaniments: Serve with warm pita bread, fresh veggie sticks, or your favorite crackers for dipping.
- Store Properly: If not serving immediately, cover the hummus tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to five days and can be enjoyed as a healthy snack anytime.
Serving Suggestions
When my Sabra hummus is ready, I love to serve it in ways that highlight its creamy texture and rich flavor. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy this homemade delight:
Classic Presentation
- Drizzle of Olive Oil: A generous drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a silky sheen and enhances the hummus’s natural flavors.
- Paprika Sprinkle: A light dusting of paprika not only adds a pop of color but also a subtle smoky taste.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and vibrant green contrast.
Dipping Accompaniments
- Warm Pita Bread: Soft, warm pita bread cuts perfectly through the smooth hummus, making each bite satisfying.
- Veggie Sticks: Crisp carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks provide a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy dip.
- Crackers: Choose whole-grain or seed-based crackers for added texture and nutritional benefits.
Creative Twists
- Grilled Vegetables: Pair the hummus with grilled zucchini, eggplant, and red peppers for a smoky and hearty appetizer.
- Spiced Nuts: Add a side of spiced or roasted nuts for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
- Stuffed Mini Peppers: Fill mini sweet peppers with hummus for a colorful and bite-sized treat.
Meal Enhancements
- Sandwich Spread: Use the hummus as a spread for your favorite sandwiches or wraps to add moisture and a burst of flavor.
- Salad Dressing Base: Thin the hummus with a bit of lemon juice and olive oil to create a creamy, tangy dressing for salads.
- Buddha Bowls: Incorporate a dollop of hummus into your Buddha bowls for added creaminess and protein.
Pairing Ideas
| Accompaniment | Description |
|---|---|
| Pita Bread | Soft and warm, perfect for dipping |
| Veggie Sticks | Crisp carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers |
| Crackers | Whole-grain or seed-based for extra texture |
| Grilled Veggies | Smoky zucchini, eggplant, and red peppers |
| Spiced Nuts | Roasted almonds or pistachios with spices |
| Mini Peppers | Sweet mini peppers stuffed with creamy hummus |
| Sandwich Spread | Adds moisture and flavor to your favorite sandwiches |
| Salad Dressing | Creamy and tangy when thinned with lemon and oil |
| Buddha Bowls | Enhances creaminess and adds protein to the bowl |
By exploring these serving suggestions, you can elevate your hummus experience and impress your guests with a variety of delicious pairings.
Storage Tips
Keeping my homemade Sabra-style hummus fresh is essential for enjoying its creamy texture and rich flavors anytime. Here are my top storage tips to ensure your hummus stays delicious:
Refrigeration
- Cool Completely
Let the hummus reach room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can affect the texture.
- Use Airtight Containers
Transfer the hummus to a clean airtight container. This keeps out air and preserves the fresh taste.
- Smooth the Surface
Use a spatula to smooth the top of the hummus. Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the surface to seal in freshness.
- Label and Date
Write the preparation date on the container. This helps you keep track of how long it’s been stored.
Freezing
- Portioning
Divide the hummus into smaller, portion-sized containers or freezer bags. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need.
- Seal Properly
Ensure the containers or bags are airtight to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality.
- Freeze Up To Three Months
Store the hummus in the freezer. It stays fresh for up to three months without losing its flavor.
Thawing and Refreshing
- Thaw in Refrigerator
Move the hummus from the freezer to the fridge and let it thaw overnight. Slow thawing helps retain the creamy texture.
- Stir Well
After thawing, stir the hummus thoroughly to restore its smooth consistency.
- Add Fresh Olive Oil
Drizzle a bit more olive oil on top and sprinkle with paprika or your favorite garnishes to enhance the flavor.
Additional Tips
- Avoid Cross-Contamination
Always use clean utensils when serving the hummus. This prevents introducing bacteria that can shorten its shelf life.
- Store Away From Strong Odors
Keep hummus away from foods with strong smells in the fridge. This ensures its subtle flavors remain intact.
Storage Duration Overview
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Up to 5 days |
| Frozen | Up to 3 months |
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade Sabra-style hummus at its best, whether you keep it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it for longer enjoyment.
Conclusion
Making this Sabra hummus copycat recipe has been a game-changer for my snack game. It’s incredible how a few simple ingredients come together to create something so delicious and versatile.
I hope you enjoy crafting this creamy hummus as much as I do. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a healthy bite this homemade version is sure to impress your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
