Avocado Hummus Dip

Ingredients

• Canned Chickpeas (1 can, 15-ounce): The foundational ingredient for any great hummus. You’ll need one can, rinsed and drained. We’ll also be using some of the liquid from the can (aquafaba) to achieve a super smooth consistency.
• Ripe Avocados (2 large): The star of the show. Look for avocados that yield to gentle pressure. Hass avocados are preferred for their creamy texture and rich flavor.
• Tahini (1/2 cup): A smooth paste made from ground sesame seeds. It provides the signature nutty, slightly bitter undertone that is essential to authentic hummus. A good quality, runny tahini is key.
• Fresh Lime Juice (1/4 cup): This is crucial for two reasons: it adds a bright, zesty flavor that cuts through the richness of the avocado and tahini, and its acidity helps prevent the avocado from browning too quickly. Freshly squeezed is always best.
• Garlic (2-3 cloves): Provides a pungent, savory depth of flavor. Adjust the amount based on your love for garlic; start with two cloves and add more if you prefer a stronger kick.
• Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon): This warm, earthy spice is a classic component in hummus, and it pairs beautifully with the creamy avocado.
• Sea Salt (3/4 teaspoon): Essential for bringing all the flavors together. You can adjust to your personal taste.
• Aquafaba or Ice-Cold Water (2-4 tablespoons): Aquafaba is the starchy liquid from the can of chickpeas. It’s a magical emulsifier that helps create an incredibly light and fluffy texture. Alternatively, ice-cold water will also work to thin the hummus to your desired consistency.
• Optional for Garnish: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Paprika, Fresh Cilantro, Toasted Sesame Seeds.

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Chickpeas: Open the can of chickpeas and drain the liquid into a separate bowl or measuring cup; reserve this liquid (aquafaba). Rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cool running water. For the absolute creamiest hummus, take an extra five minutes to peel the skins off the chickpeas. Simply pinch each chickpea gently, and the skin will slide right off. While this step is optional, it makes a remarkable difference in the final texture.

2. 2

   Combine the Base Ingredients: In the bowl of a high-powered food processor or a powerful blender, add the tahini and the fresh lime juice. Process for about 60 seconds. This step, known as “whipping” the tahini, is a secret to light and airy hummus. It will aerate the tahini, making it pale and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula.

3. 3

   Add the Aromatics and Spices: Add the peeled garlic cloves, ground cumin, and sea salt to the whipped tahini mixture. Process for another 30-45 seconds until the garlic is finely minced and everything is well combined. Scrape the sides of the bowl again to ensure everything is incorporated.

4. 4

   Incorporate the Chickpeas: Add half of your prepared chickpeas to the food processor. Blend for about 1 minute until a thick paste forms. Add the remaining chickpeas and continue to process for another 1-2 minutes until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.

5. 5

   Introduce the Avocado: Halve your avocados, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh directly into the food processor with the chickpea mixture. Process immediately for about 1-2 minutes until the avocado is fully integrated and the mixture is smooth and vibrant green.

6. 6

   Achieve the Perfect Consistency: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the reserved aquafaba (or ice-cold water), one tablespoon at a time. Continue to blend until the hummus reaches your desired level of creaminess and is light and fluffy. This can take anywhere from 2 to 5 minutes of continuous blending, depending on the power of your machine. Don’t rush this step; letting it blend for a few extra minutes is key to a silky-smooth finish.

7. 7

   Taste and Adjust: Stop the processor and give the hummus a final taste. Adjust the seasonings if necessary. You might want to add another pinch of salt, a squeeze more lime juice for extra zing, or another dash of cumin for more warmth.

8. 8

   Serve or Store: Transfer the avocado hummus to a serving bowl. If serving immediately, create a swirl on top with the back of a spoon and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, some fresh chopped cilantro, or toasted sesame seeds. If not serving right away, see storage tips to maintain its fresh color.