Who Makes the Best Hummus in the World?
The title of “best hummus in the world” is hotly debated, with various regions and chefs claiming to have mastered this beloved dish. However, some places are legendary for their hummus, attracting food lovers from around the globe.
Top Contenders for the World’s Best Hummus
- Abu Hassan (Jaffa, Israel)
- One of the most famous hummus spots, Abu Hassan serves ultra-creamy hummus with warm pita and toppings like masabacha (warm, chunky hummus).
- The key? Freshly made hummus daily with high-quality olive oil and tahini.
- Lebanese Street Vendors (Beirut, Lebanon)
- Lebanon is a strong contender for the best hummus, known for its smooth, balanced, and slightly tangy flavor.
- Lebanese hummus is often lighter and silkier, thanks to their use of the right chickpea-to-tahini ratio and excellent olive oil.
- Hummus Said (Acre, Israel)
- This famous hummus shop in the old city of Acre (Akko) serves hummus that is thick, rich, and generously topped with olive oil and warm chickpeas.
- It is always served fresh, with long lines of locals and tourists proving its excellence.
- Sultan of Hummus (Damascus, Syria)
- Syrian hummus is known for its smooth consistency and perfect balance of garlic, lemon, tahini, and olive oil.
- Though the region has faced challenges, traditional Syrian hummus remains legendary.
- Michelin-Starred Restaurants & Chefs
- Renowned chefs like Yotam Ottolenghi have introduced gourmet hummus variations to high-end restaurants worldwide.
- His hummus emphasizes high-quality extra virgin olive oil, fresh chickpeas, and tahini from Nablus.
Why Olive Oil is Essential to Hummus
Olive oil isn’t just a garnish for hummus—it’s an integral ingredient that enhances texture, taste, and authenticity. Here’s why:
1. Improves Creaminess
- Olive oil helps emulsify the chickpeas and tahini, creating a smooth, velvety texture.
- The fat content ensures a rich and satisfying mouthfeel.
2. Enhances Flavor
- A good extra virgin olive oil adds fruity, peppery, or slightly bitter notes that balance the nuttiness of tahini.
- Olive oil elevates the dish, making it taste richer and more complex.
3. Essential for Authenticity
- Traditional hummus, especially in Lebanon, Israel, Palestine, and Syria, always includes a generous drizzle of olive oil.
- It’s considered a “sacred” finishing touch, making hummus taste authentic and true to its Middle Eastern roots.
4. Boosts Nutrition
- Extra virgin olive oil is packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds.
- It turns hummus into a nutritional powerhouse, perfect for a Mediterranean diet.
The Ultimate Hummus with Olive Oil: Tips for Perfection
If you want to make (or taste) the world’s best hummus, focus on these key elements:
✅ Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil – Preferably from Israel, Lebanon, or Palestine for authenticity.
✅ Opt for freshly cooked chickpeas – Never use canned for the best texture.
✅ Incorporate olive oil into the blending process – Don’t just drizzle it on top.
✅ Let hummus rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
✅ Always serve with warm pita, olives, and fresh herbs for the ultimate experience.
