Authentic Syrian Hummus

silky-smooth, nutty, and garlicky chickpea dip made the traditional Syrian way — Authentic Syrian Hummus combines chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil for a rich, creamy texture and balanced flavor. Finished with paprika and parsley, this hummus is a mezze essential and a versatile, healthy snack for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Syrian-style hummus is ultra-creamy, perfectly seasoned, and simple to prepare. Whether served as part of a mezze spread, scooped with warm pita bread, or paired with crisp vegetables, it brings authentic Middle Eastern flavor to your table. The use of ice-cold water helps whip the hummus to a soft, fluffy consistency — a hallmark of true Levantine preparation.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• chickpeas (canned or cooked)
• tahini
• lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• garlic, minced
• ice-cold water
• salt
• extra virgin olive oil
• ground cumin (optional)

For Garnish:

• olive oil (for drizzling)
• paprika
• fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Add drained chickpeas to a food processor and blend until finely ground and powdery.
2. Add tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and cumin (if using). Blend until combined.
3. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the ice-cold water. Continue blending until the hummus becomes smooth, light, and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, lemon juice, or garlic as desired.
5. Spoon the hummus into a shallow serving bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create a swirl pattern in the center.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with paprika and chopped parsley.
7. Serve immediately with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or use as a spread.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories per serving: 220 kcal

Variations

• Roasted Garlic: Replace raw garlic with roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
• Spicy Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne or a swirl of harissa paste.
• Zesty Twist: Add a bit of lemon zest for extra brightness.
• Creamier Finish: Blend in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for extra richness.
• Herbed Version: Add fresh herbs like mint, cilantro, or dill to the processor for a green, herbaceous flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Stir well before serving.
Hummus is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Do not freeze, as it may affect the texture.

FAQs

Can I use dried chickpeas?

Yes. Soak overnight, boil until soft, and measure out 1 ½ cups of cooked chickpeas for the recipe.

How do I make the hummus extra smooth?

Peeling the chickpeas or using very soft cooked ones helps. Blending thoroughly with cold water is key.

Is this hummus vegan?

Yes, it is naturally vegan and dairy-free.

What type of tahini should I use?

Use a good-quality tahini that’s smooth and pourable. Stir well if separated before measuring.

Can I make this without a food processor?

A high-powered blender works well, but a food processor gives better control over consistency.

What do I serve with hummus?

Warm pita bread, raw vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers), crackers, or as part of a mezze platter.

Can I use lemon juice concentrate?

Fresh lemon juice is best for authentic flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

Why use ice-cold water?

It helps emulsify the tahini and chickpeas, resulting in a lighter, creamier texture.

Is hummus healthy?

Yes, it’s rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats from tahini and olive oil.

Can I make a large batch?

Absolutely. Double or triple the recipe and store in individual containers for the week.

Conclusion

Authentic Syrian Hummus is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and endlessly versatile. Whether enjoyed as a dip, spread, or side, it brings together simple ingredients in a way that’s rich, satisfying, and deeply rooted in tradition. With its creamy texture and bright, nutty flavor, this homemade hummus is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Authentic Syrian Hummus

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A silky-smooth, nutty, and garlicky chickpea dip made the traditional Syrian way — blended with tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil, then garnished with paprika and parsley for the perfect creamy mezze.

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Syrian
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed (or 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas)
• 1/3 cup tahini
• 2–3 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 3 tbsp ice-cold water (adjust as needed)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin (optional)
• For Garnish:
• Olive oil drizzle
• Paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Place chickpeas in a food processor and blend until powdery.
2. Add tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and cumin (if using). Blend until smooth.
3. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in cold water until the hummus reaches a creamy, fluffy consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Spoon into a shallow bowl, create a swirl with the back of a spoon, and drizzle olive oil over the top.
6. Sprinkle with paprika and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with warm pita or fresh veggies.

Notes

• For ultra-smooth hummus, peel the chickpeas before blending.
• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor balance.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Great as a dip, sandwich spread, or mezze platter element.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 220 kcal
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg