Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe WellShawarma Hummus Recipe

Shawarma Hummus Recipe

Inspired by The Well
Time50m
Serves4

Make Shawarma Hummus Recipe in just 50m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Hummus Base

Method

Hummus Base

  1. 1

    Prepare chickpeas (if using canned)

    If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse 2 cups of chickpeas. For a creamier hummus, reserve 2–3 tablespoons of the canning liquid (aquafaba) and remove any loose skins by pinching the chickpeas between your fingers; discard skins.

  2. 2

    Blend tahini and lemon

    In a food processor, combine 0.5 cup tahini and 0.25 cup fresh lemon juice. Process for 30–45 seconds until the mixture lightens in color and becomes slightly whipped. Scrape down the sides.

  3. 3

    Add garlic and chickpeas

    Add 2 garlic cloves, 2 cups chickpeas, 1 tsp kosher salt, and 0.5 tsp ground cumin to the processor. Pulse a few times to break up the chickpeas.

  4. 4

    Emulsify and adjust texture

    With the processor running, drizzle in 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil and 3 tablespoons ice water (or aquafaba) in a steady stream. Process until very smooth, 2–4 minutes. If the hummus is too thick, add additional ice water or reserved aquafaba, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach a creamy, spreadable consistency.

  5. 5

    Taste and season

    Taste and adjust seasoning: add more salt, lemon, or a pinch more cumin if desired. Transfer hummus to a shallow serving bowl and use the back of a spoon to create a shallow well in the center for toppings.

Shawarma Topping

  1. 6

    Marinate chicken

    In a bowl, combine 0.25 cup plain yogurt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 minced garlic clove, 0.5 tsp ground cumin, 0.5 tsp ground coriander, 0.5 tsp smoked paprika, 0.25 tsp ground allspice, 0.125 tsp ground cinnamon, 0.5 tsp kosher salt, and 0.25 tsp black pepper. Add 1 cup thinly sliced chicken thighs and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.

  2. 7

    Cook chicken

    Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil (if the pan needs it) and when shimmering, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to develop color, then stir and continue cooking 3–4 more minutes until chicken is cooked through and edges are slightly caramelized. Total cooking time ~5–7 minutes depending on thickness. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes; chop into bite-sized pieces if necessary.

Finish & Garnish

  1. 8

    Assemble

    Spoon the prepared hummus onto a shallow serving plate and smooth into an even layer, leaving a central well. Spoon the warm shawarma chicken over one side of the hummus (or in the center, whichever presentation you prefer).

  2. 9

    Garnish and finish

    Drizzle 2 tablespoons good-quality olive oil over the hummus and chicken. Sprinkle 0.5 tsp sumac evenly, scatter 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or chopped toasted almonds, and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Add 0.25 cup pickled cucumbers or quick pickles around the edge if using. Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky salt to taste.

  3. 10

    Serve

    Serve immediately with warm pita, flatbread, or vegetable crudités. Leftovers: store hummus and chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; gently reheat chicken before serving.

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