Ingredients
Caramelized Onions
- 2 medium onions (about 2 cups, sliced)
- 1 tbsp salted butter
Hummus Base
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1-2 tbsp water (plus additional as needed)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (good quality)
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/4-1/2 tsp fine sea salt (plus additional to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 can (19 oz) chickpeas (rinsed and drained; about 1 and 1/2 cups)
Instructions
- Caramelize Onions: Melt the butter in a heavy bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook uncovered, stirring every 3-4 minutes until the onions soften and turn golden brown and caramelized. This process takes approximately 30 minutes. If the onions begin browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low. Once caramelized, set the onions aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Hummus Mixture: In a food processor bowl, add the caramelized onions, reserving 1 tablespoon for garnish, along with the tahini, red wine vinegar, olive oil, 1 tablespoon of water, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Initial Blend: Blend these ingredients for about one minute until fully combined and creamy.
- Add Chickpeas and Process: Add the rinsed and drained chickpeas to the food processor and process for another minute. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
- Smooth to Desired Consistency: Repeat the blending for 2-3 more cycles until the hummus is smooth and creamy. If the mixture appears too thick, add additional water one tablespoon at a time and pulse until the desired consistency is reached.
- Season to Taste: Taste the hummus and adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavor.
- Serve: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and top with the reserved caramelized onions and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for garnish. Enjoy with pita bread, vegetables, or as a flavorful spread.
Notes
- Caramelizing onions requires patience but developing the deep sweetness is key to this recipe’s flavor.
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor in the hummus and garnish.
- Adjust water quantity carefully to reach your preferred hummus thickness.
- This hummus keeps well refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan margarine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian