Homemade Hummus and Pita Chips Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Hummus and Pita Chips are the perfect combination of creamy, savory dip paired with crunchy, golden chips. This versatile and easy-to-make snack is not only healthy but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re entertaining guests, enjoying a quiet evening at home, or bringing a dish to a potluck, this homemade hummus and pita chip recipe is sure to impress.

The creamy texture of the hummus complements the crispy, slightly salty pita chips, creating a well-balanced snack that’s packed with flavor. The best part is that making hummus from scratch is much simpler than you might think, and when paired with freshly baked pita chips, the taste is far superior to store-bought versions.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making both homemade hummus and pita chips, along with tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and yields fantastic results.

Why You’ll Love Homemade Hummus and Pita Chips

• Customizable: You can adjust the flavor of your hummus to your taste. Add more garlic, lemon juice, or tahini for a personalized twist. The pita chips can also be seasoned in various ways to suit your preferences.
• Healthy: Hummus is made from chickpeas, which are high in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice. The homemade pita chips are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier alternative to store-bought chips.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can have homemade hummus and pita chips ready in less than an hour. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re in need of a quick and satisfying snack.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, serving appetizers at a gathering, or simply enjoying a snack by yourself, homemade hummus and pita chips are perfect for any occasion. The combination is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The difference between store-bought hummus and homemade hummus is noticeable. Fresh ingredients and the ability to control the seasoning mean that your hummus will have a bright, vibrant flavor that’s far superior to any store-bought version.
• Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly: Hummus is naturally vegan and vegetarian, making it a great choice for guests with dietary restrictions. It’s also gluten-free if you use gluten-free pita bread for the chips.
• Affordable: Making homemade hummus and pita chips is cost-effective, especially compared to purchasing pre-made versions. Plus, you’ll know exactly what goes into your snack, avoiding any unwanted preservatives or additives.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving (depends on the size of the portion)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 12-18g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 7-9g
• Fiber: 5-6g
• Sugar: 1-3g

Ingredients

For the Hummus:

• 1 ½ cups canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
• ¼ cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt, to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons water (to achieve desired consistency)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Paprika (optional, for garnish)

For the Pita Chips:

• 4 pita breads (white, whole wheat, or gluten-free if preferred)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pita Chips

To begin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, cut the pita breads into wedges. Slice each pita into 8 pieces, creating triangles, much like you would with a pizza. If you’re using gluten-free pita bread, the process is the same.

Next, brush the pita wedges lightly with olive oil on both sides. This will help them crisp up in the oven and add a nice golden color. Place the pita wedges on a baking sheet in a single layer to ensure they bake evenly.

Sprinkle the garlic powder, oregano (if using), and salt over the pita chips. Add fresh ground black pepper to taste. Toss the pita wedges gently to coat them evenly with the oil and seasonings.

Now, bake the pita chips in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them toward the end to avoid burning, as the chips can crisp up quickly. Once done, remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool.

2. Make the Hummus

While your pita chips are baking, it’s the perfect time to make the hummus. Start by placing the canned chickpeas in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse them under cold water. This will help remove any excess salt or liquid from the can. After rinsing, transfer the chickpeas to your food processor.

Add tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Pulse the mixture a few times to combine the ingredients, then scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Now, with the food processor running, slowly add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2-3 tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a creamier hummus, add more water or olive oil.

Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice, garlic, or salt based on your preference. If you like a slightly spicier hummus, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ground red pepper.

Once the hummus is smooth and creamy, transfer it to a serving bowl.

3. Garnish and Serve

To garnish your homemade hummus, drizzle a little extra olive oil on top. You can also sprinkle some paprika or chopped fresh parsley for an added burst of color and flavor. Serve the hummus immediately with your freshly baked pita chips.

If you’re not serving the hummus right away, you can cover the bowl with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pita chips can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Tips for Perfect Homemade Hummus and Pita Chips

• For Smooth Hummus: To make your hummus ultra-smooth, you can remove the skins from the chickpeas. While this is optional, it can result in a creamier texture. Simply pinch the chickpeas between your fingers, and the skins will slip off easily.
• Adjust the Consistency: If your hummus turns out too thick, add a little extra water or olive oil to achieve your desired consistency. For a thicker hummus, use less liquid.
• Flavor Variations: You can customize your hummus by adding additional flavors like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even a pinch of curry powder. Blending these ingredients into the hummus creates a new twist on the classic recipe.
• Make the Pita Chips More Flavorful: Experiment with different seasonings for the pita chips. You can try adding smoked paprika, onion powder, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking for a more complex flavor.
• Use Whole Wheat Pita: For an extra dose of fiber, opt for whole wheat pita bread when making your pita chips. Whole wheat pita will add a slightly nutty flavor and will be more filling compared to regular white pita.
• Ensure Even Baking: For perfectly crispy pita chips, make sure the wedges are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet. If you overcrowd the chips, they may not bake evenly and could become soggy.
• Serve with Veggies: If you want to make the snack even healthier, serve your hummus with cut-up vegetables like carrots, celery, cucumber, or bell peppers in addition to the pita chips.

Variations of Homemade Hummus and Pita Chips

• Spicy Hummus: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the hummus for some extra heat. You can also drizzle some hot sauce on top as a garnish to bring out the spice.
• Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Roast red peppers in the oven until they’re soft and slightly charred, then blend them into the hummus mixture for a smoky, sweet flavor.
• Herbed Hummus: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro to the hummus for a burst of freshness. Blend the herbs into the hummus, or sprinkle them on top as a garnish.
• Gluten-Free Pita Chips: Use gluten-free pita bread to make the pita chips if you’re serving guests with gluten sensitivities. The flavor and texture of the chips will still be just as delicious!

Storage and Shelf Life

• Hummus: Homemade hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you find that the hummus thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a little water or olive oil to loosen it up before serving.
• Pita Chips: Store leftover pita chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If they start to lose their crispiness, you can re-crisp them by baking them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

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Conclusion

Homemade Hummus and Pita Chips are an easy and flavorful snack that can be enjoyed at any time. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or as a simple after-work treat, this combination is sure to please. With the ability to customize the flavors of both the hummus and the chips, you can experiment with different ingredients to create a snack that’s perfectly tailored to your taste.

Making homemade hummus and pita chips is not only delicious but also healthy, providing you with a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy this satisfying and wholesome snack that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!