vegetarian

Pistachio hummus is a delightful twist on the traditional Middle Eastern dish, full of savory, nutty flavors. Perfect for a casual snack or an elegant appetizer, it offers a combination of creamy chickpeas and protein-rich pistachios, often enjoyed with pita bread or crunchy vegetables. Most popularly in Egypt, hummus is a staple in various meals due to its versatility and nutritious profile.

This healthy and tasty pistachio hummus recipe adds a unique flair with its subtle spiciness and rich texture, making it ideal for anyone looking for an easy and vegan snack. This version can also be made without tahini for those who prefer an alternative or are unable to find sesame paste. Let’s dive into this delicious creation!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
• 3 tablespoons water
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
• 3 tablespoons tahini (optional)
• 3 tablespoons shelled pistachios
• 1/4 cup olive oil

Preparation

1. Place the chickpeas in a food processor.
2. Add the water, garlic, salt, cumin, lemon juice, and red chili flakes.
3. Add the tahini if using. If not using tahini, simply proceed to the next step.
4. Add the shelled pistachios, reserving a few for garnish.
5. Blend until roughly chopped, then gradually add the olive oil and blend until smooth or to your desired consistency.
6. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl.
7. Garnish with the reserved pistachios and a drizzle of olive oil.

Did you know?

Hummus is not only known for its delightful taste but also for its significant nutritional benefits. The combination of chickpeas and pistachios provides a high amount of plant-based protein and healthy fats. Interestingly, pistachios have been cultivated in the Middle East for thousands of years and hold cultural importance in Egyptian cuisine.

If you want to make this recipe a bit spicier, you can increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a bit of cayenne pepper. On the other hand, for those who are avoiding sesame products, you can easily skip the tahini without compromising much on the flavor. This recipe is extremely versatile; you can use it as a spread on toast or as a dip for your favorite veggies.

While traditional hummus recipes emphasize the use of tahini, eliminating it in this version still maintains a creamy texture thanks to the olive oil and pistachios. Besides being a tasty snack, this hummus variant adds a nutritious punch to your diet, making it the best choice for a health-conscious meal. Be sure to try it out with a variety of sides to fully appreciate its robust and spicy flavors!

Avocado Hummus is a delightful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish that merges the creamy richness of avocados with the traditional hummus base. This modern variation is perfect for summertime gatherings or casual dinners where everyone can indulge in a healthy and flavorful dip. Despite its contemporary flair, this hummus respects its roots by retaining key ingredients like chickpeas and tahini.

This simple yet satisfying dish is incredibly versatile, offering a nutritious option for any meal. The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and hot pepper flakes ensures a tantalizing mix of tang and spice. Not only is it vegan, but it also makes for an effortless solution to use up those avocados that may be a tad too ripe.

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 ripe avocado
• Handful of parsley
• 2 cloves garlic
• Pinch of hot pepper flakes
• 2 tbsp tahini paste
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

Preparation

1. Add the chickpeas, avocado, parsley, and garlic to a food processor.
2. Pour in the tahini paste and the juice of one lemon.
3. Add a generous amount of salt and pepper.
4. Pulse the mixture until it’s chunky, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil as you blend to smooth consistency.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of hot pepper flakes.

Did you know?

Avocado Hummus, although not a traditional Egyptian recipe, aligns well with the ingredients commonly found in Egyptian kitchens. Chickpeas, known as hummus in Arabic, are a staple in Egyptian cuisine, often featured in dishes like ful medames and falafel. The addition of avocado not only makes the hummus more creamy and luxurious but also adds a valuable dose of healthy fats.

Interestingly, the word “hummus” itself means chickpeas in Arabic. Traditional hummus recipes can vary significantly across the Middle East, but the core ingredients remain the same: chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. This modern version, incorporating avocado, offers a fresh take without losing the essence of the original.

Tahini, a key ingredient in this recipe, is a sesame seed paste that is particularly prominent in Middle Eastern food culture. Making your own tahini can enhance the flavor profile of your hummus by toasting the sesame seeds for an added depth of taste. Additionally, avocados, often associated with guacamole, bring a unique twist to hummus, making it not just delicious but also a healthy treat, packed with essential nutrients.

Enjoy this vibrant and versatile dip with toast, pita chips, or a colorful array of veggies for a truly delightful and nutritious experience.

Originating from the Middle East, hummus holds a special place in many cultures due to its versatile and nutritious nature. While traditional hummus is typically made with chickpeas, this unique version using white beans offers a creamy and subtly different flavor profile.

Combining the smoothness of Great Northern beans with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, this white bean hummus can easily become a new favorite. Whether you’re smearing it on toast, using it as a dip, or adding a spicy twist, this recipe is vegan, healthy, and simply the best.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried great northern beans
• 1/2 onion
• 4 garlic cloves (2 whole, 2 minced)
• 1/4 cup tahini paste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 ice cubes

Preparation

1. Soak the dried beans overnight in cold water.
2. Drain the beans, then add them to a pot with about two quarts of water, the halved onion, and two whole garlic cloves.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 90 minutes until the beans are tender, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.
4. Allow the beans to cool in the cooking liquid, then drain them, reserving some of the liquid.
5. In a food processor, combine the beans, cooked onion and garlic, minced garlic, tahini paste, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. With the machine running, add the olive oil and ice cubes in three additions, ensuring each is fully emulsified before adding the next.
7. Adjust the consistency with the reserved cooking liquid if necessary.

Did you know?

This hummus recipe can be easily altered to suit your preferences. If you prefer it without tahini, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a creamier texture. For a spicy kick, blend in some roasted red peppers or a touch of harissa paste. Hummus is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with protein, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.

The technique of adding ice cubes while blending is a traditional secret to achieve extra fluffiness. This method helps to aerate the hummus, giving it a lighter texture that pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, from toast toppers to sandwich spreads.

Experiment with flavor variations such as blending in avocado for a creamy twist or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy punch. Whether you’re opting for a classic taste or a bold new combination, homemade white bean hummus is sure to impress!

Hummus, a beloved staple in various Middle Eastern cuisines, is traditionally made with chickpeas and tahini. This Egyptian-inspired version introduces a delightful twist with roasted carrots, adding a sweet and smoky flavor that takes this classic dip to a new level. It’s an inviting way to enjoy a vegan and healthy snack that’s sure to surprise even the most skeptical palates.

Often served as a versatile appetizer or toast topping, this Roasted Carrot Hummus offers a balance of creamy texture and spicy undertones. Ideal for those looking for an easy yet rewarding homemade dish, it proves that hummus can be exciting and diverse. Plus, it’s one of the best ways to enjoy hummus if you’re searching for options without tahini.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of carrots, peeled and chopped into finger-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 15 ounces of chickpeas (canned, drained and rinsed)
• 6 tablespoons tahini
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup fresh pressed lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2-4 tablespoons water

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the peeled and chopped carrots in olive oil, rosemary, cumin, and coriander.
3. Spread the carrots on a baking sheet and roast for 20 to 25 minutes until tender.
4. Let the roasted carrots cool for a few minutes.
5. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, salt, lemon juice, and olive oil.
6. Pulse until the mixture is smooth.
7. Add the roasted carrots along with any leftover oil and seasonings from the baking sheet.
8. Blend until the carrots are fully incorporated and the hummus is smooth.
9. While blending, gradually add 2-4 tablespoons of water until you reach desired consistency.
10. Taste and adjust spices if needed, then blend again.

Did you know?

Roasting carrots enhances their natural sweetness, providing a unique depth to this hummus variation. Carrots are not only rich in vitamins and antioxidants, but they also have a low glycemic index, making them a perfect ingredient for a healthy diet. Hummus, originating from the Arabic word for chickpeas, is believed to have first been recorded in 13th century Egypt. Today, it’s a staple across many cultures. This dish can be enjoyed without tahini, using alternative bases such as beans or peas for those with allergies.

Traditionally, hummus is enjoyed with pita bread, but it’s also fabulous on toast or as a dip for fresh veggies. Adding roasted carrots not only amplifies the flavor but also makes it more visually appealing with its vibrant orange hue. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply snacking, this versatile hummus is bound to be a favorite.