Step 1

Rinse and drain the chickpeas. Peel the skin off the beans one at a time. Using your thumb and first two fingers works best. This will take about 15 minutes or so. Set about 1/4 cup of chickpeas aside for garnish.

Step 2

Place peeled garbanzo beans into a food processor. Add the garlic, tahini paste, olive oil, lemon juice, and spices. Add about 1/4 cup of cold water. Pulse until well combined.

Step 3

Continue pouring additional cold water into the food processor until light and fluffy. I often use a total of 3/4 cup (or more) of water. Add it very slowly, and test it in between.

Step 4

Spoon the hummus into a serving bowl. Spread it out, and then add some additional olive oil, some salt, pepper, and a bit more cayenne pepper. Add a few reserved chickpeas.

Step 5

Serve hummus with pita chips and a variety of fresh vegetables, if desired.