Broccoli Hummus is an innovative take on the traditional Middle Eastern dip. While hummus is typically made with chickpeas, this recipe incorporates broccoli, transforming this humble vegetable into the star of the show. This makes it perfect for those seeking a healthy and easy-to-make vegan dish.
This recipe, free of tahini, provides a unique spicy flavor profile, combining creamy white beans with aromatic roasted garlic and a hint of coriander and rosemary. It’s a standalone dish, perfect for gatherings or a nutritious meal, showcasing how simple ingredients can be turned into something truly special.
Ingredients
- 1 head of broccoli (or tenderstem broccoli)
- 1 can of white beans (such as cannellini or butter beans)
- 1 head of garlic
- 2-3 sprigs of rosemary
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1/2 cup pistachio nuts
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Trim the broccoli and place it on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with oil, and place it cut side down on the tray.
- Roast the broccoli and garlic for about 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender and the garlic is caramelized.
- While the vegetables roast, place half the olive oil in a pan and heat gently. Add the coriander seeds and a pinch of rosemary, cooking just until fragrant without burning.
- Once the vegetables are done, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins.
- In a food processor, combine the beans, roasted garlic, and the flavored olive oil. Blend until smooth but still slightly textured. Add unheated olive oil to adjust the consistency and flavor.
- Lightly toast the pistachio nuts on a tray in the oven for a few minutes until they are fragrant. Crush them using a pestle and mortar.
- To plate, spread the bean hummus on a serving platter. Top with the roasted broccoli and sprinkle the crushed pistachios over the dish. Finally, drizzle with a bit more olive oil before serving.
Did you know?
Broccoli Hummus is not only a delicious swap for traditional hummus but also a nutritional powerhouse. Broccoli is packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and numerous antioxidants, making this dish a fantastic option for those focusing on a healthy diet. Hummus, believed to have originated in Egypt, has numerous regional variations. This modern twist pays homage to its roots while adding a contemporary flair. Interestingly, using white beans instead of chickpeas makes this dish creamier and a good source of protein, satisfying both vegans and non-vegans alike.
The use of roasted garlic adds a depth of flavor that’s both sweet and savory, perfectly balancing the natural bitterness of the broccoli. Olive oil, often called “liquid gold” in Mediterranean kitchens, not only enhances flavor but also provides heart-healthy fats.
Coriander seeds introduce a spicy zest that sets this dish apart and complements the rich, earthy notes of rosemary. The toasted pistachios add a delightful crunch, bringing exciting texture in every bite. This dish is the epitome of how easy and versatile cooking with simple, home-based ingredients can be while achieving gourmet-level results.
