Watch: How to make hummus

There is no doubt about the popularity of hummus. The Middle Eastern and Mediterranean chickpea and tahini dip is a staple on tables in the region, and has become an essential buy the world over.

Perhaps it's down to the simplicity, the fact that pretty much everyone can eat it – whether they are vegan, vegetarian or lactose intolerant – or its versatility. You can enjoy it simply with warm pita bread or with sliced vegetables, salad or grilled meat; the options are limitless, really.

Now, there are plenty of variations on the classic. Take a stroll through a supermarket aisle and you'll find everything from roasted red pepper to beetroot, pumpkin and avocado-mixed varieties. There is even chocolate-flavoured hummus.

But we believe that a traditional, home-made take on the dish is best. So, watch the video above for a fail-safe hummus recipe that will put a smile on faces with just eight staple ingredients: chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt and water.

No cooking required, your hummus will be blended up and ready to eat before you can say, "Sahtain".