Creamy Jerusalem-Style Hummus

1. Soak Chickpeas

Begin your hummus journey by soaking 1 1/4 cups of dried chickpeas in a large bowl filled with water overnight. This essential first step softens the chickpeas, paving the way for the smooth texture we're aiming for.

2. Cook Chickpeas with Baking Soda

Once your chickpeas have plumped up from their overnight soak, drain them and move to the cooking phase. In a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the soaked chickpeas with a teaspoon of baking soda. Stir this mixture constantly for about 3 minutes. The baking soda helps to break down the chickpeas' skins, which contributes to an even silkier hummus.

3. Boil and Simmer Chickpeas

Next, add 6 1/2 cups of water to the chickpeas and bring it all to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the chickpeas simmer for anywhere between 20 to 40 minutes. You'll know they're done when they're tender enough to break apart easily when pressed. Achieving this level of tenderness is crucial; it's what gives hummus that perfectly creamy consistency.

4. Process Chickpeas

Once the chickpeas are tender, drain them and transfer them to a food processor. Process the chickpeas until they transform into a stiff paste. This is the foundation of your hummus, so take your time to ensure it's smooth and free of lumps.

5. Add Tahini, Lemon Juice, Garlic, and Salt

With the food processor still running, introduce a cup plus 2 tablespoons of light tahini paste, 4 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, 4 crushed cloves of garlic, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt to the chickpea paste. These ingredients are the soul of your hummus, each adding a layer of depth and flavor that's characteristic of Jerusalem-style hummus.

6. Aerate with Ice-cold Water

Now comes the magic touch: while the processor is still working its charm, slowly drizzle in 6 1/2 tablespoons of ice-cold water. Continue to process for about 5 minutes, which will aerate the hummus, making it light and ultra-creamy.

7. Rest Before Serving

Finally, transfer your hummus into a serving bowl and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before diving in. This rest period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.