Authentic Kicked-Up Syrian Hummus Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 5 unpeeled garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained
• cup tahini
• cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 450F (230C).
2. Place the unpeeled garlic cloves in the center of a large square of aluminum foil. Drizzle the garlic with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and wrap it tightly in the foil.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until the garlic is golden brown. Once roasted, remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. After cooling, squeeze the roasted garlic out of the peels into a food processor.
5. Add the garbanzo beans, tahini, fresh lemon juice, cumin, salt, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the food processor.
6. Process everything together until the mixture becomes very creamy.

Tips

For a fresh, herby flavor, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of fresh parsley or mint. You can also try adding 1 teaspoon of curry or paprika for a unique twist. Hummus is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment!

If you want to try a Tuscan-style hummus, substitute garbanzo beans with great northern beans and add some fresh basil.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 84
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 3g

Nutrition Facts

Servings Per Recipe: 16

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Total Fat	6g	8%
Saturated Fat	1g	4%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	174mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	6g	2%
Dietary Fiber	1g	5%
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	3g	5%
Vitamin C	3mg	3%
Calcium	21mg	2%
Iron	1mg	3%
Potassium	66mg	1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Hummus, a beloved Middle Eastern dish, has become a global favorite. While there are countless variations, the "Authentic Kicked-Up Syrian Hummus" stands out for its deep, smoky flavor, thanks to roasted garlic and a dash of cumin. This recipe not only brings the classic hummus to life but also takes it to the next level with added ingredients that intensify the taste, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Origin and History

Hummus has roots deeply embedded in the Levantine region, which spans Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Palestine. The word "hummus" is Arabic for "chickpea," the key ingredient. Though its precise origins are debated, most food historians agree that it was first prepared in the Levant. Over time, this simple yet delicious dip spread across the globe, gaining popularity in the Mediterranean, Middle East, and beyond. The Syrian version is known for its subtle depth, often incorporating roasted garlic, a touch of cumin, and olive oil for richness.

Regional Variations

Each country in the Levant has its own version of hummus, with subtle differences in preparation and ingredients. The Syrian variant is typically richer in flavor due to the liberal use of olive oil, roasted garlic, and spices like cumin. In Lebanon, hummus is often served with a dollop of pine nuts and olive oil, while in Israel, tahini is sometimes served separately as a topping. Syrian hummus also tends to be smoother and creamier, a result of using high-quality tahini and blending the ingredients until velvety.

Distinctions from Similar Dishes

Hummus is often compared to other Middle Eastern dips like baba ganoush and muhammara, but it is distinct in both flavor and texture. Baba ganoush, which uses roasted eggplant, offers a smoky and creamy profile but lacks the chickpea base. Muhammara, made with roasted red peppers and walnuts, is spicier and more textured. Hummus, especially the Syrian version, is smoother and has a more neutral flavor profile, allowing it to pair with a variety of foods, from pita to vegetables and even grilled meats.

Where is it Typically Served?

Hummus is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, a dip, or even a side dish. In Syria, it is commonly served as part of a meze spreadsmall dishes served with bread, olives, and picklesoften at the beginning of a meal. It's also a popular snack or accompaniment to grilled meats like kebabs. In Western countries, it's frequently served with pita bread, crudits, or even as a sandwich spread. Many restaurants worldwide offer variations of hummus on their menus, making it a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Interesting Facts

• Hummus is a rich source of plant-based protein, making it a popular dish for vegetarians and vegans.
• The earliest known written recipe for hummus comes from 13th-century Cairo, though its likely the dish existed long before that.
• In 2008, Lebanon and the UK engaged in a "hummus war" over the title of the world's largest plate of hummus, which reached over 4,000 kilograms in weight.
• In Syria and Lebanon, hummus is often served with a sprinkle of sumac, a tart, red spice that adds a zing to the flavor.

Conclusion

The "Authentic Kicked-Up Syrian Hummus" recipe is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Roasting the garlic and adding cumin enhances the flavor, making this dish a true standout. Whether enjoyed as part of a meze platter or as a standalone appetizer, this hummus will surely impress your guests with its rich, creamy texture and vibrant flavor profile.

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