Beet Hummus Recipe: A Vibrant & Flavorful Twist on a Classic
Are you looking for a healthy and delicious appetizer or snack that's both visually appealing and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this vibrant beet hummus recipe! This recipe takes the classic hummus and elevates it with the earthy sweetness of beets, creating a stunning pink hue and a unique taste profile that's sure to impress your guests. It's perfect for parties, potlucks, or a simple weeknight snack with pita bread or crudités.
Ingredients for Beet Hummus
This recipe is surprisingly simple, requiring ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Let's get started!
- 1 cup cooked beets, peeled and roughly chopped. You can easily roast or boil your own beets, or purchase pre-cooked beets from the grocery store for convenience.
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained. Using canned chickpeas saves significant time and effort.
- 1/4 cup tahini. This gives the hummus its signature creamy texture and nutty flavor.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor.
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced. Adjust the amount to your preferred level of garlic intensity.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin. This warm spice complements the earthy beets beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste. Adjust the salt according to your preference and the saltiness of your other ingredients.
- 2-4 tablespoons water, or more, as needed to achieve desired consistency. Start with less and add more gradually.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, paprika, a drizzle of olive oil, toasted pine nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Instructions: Making the Beet Hummus
Follow these simple steps to create a creamy and flavorful beet hummus:
- Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the cooked beets, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt.
- Blend: Process until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You want it to be spreadable but not runny.
- Taste & Adjust: Taste the hummus and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add more lemon juice, salt, or cumin depending on your preference.
- Serve: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish with your choice of fresh parsley, paprika, olive oil, toasted pine nuts, or sea salt. Serve immediately with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Tips for the Best Beet Hummus
- Roasting the Beets: Roasting beets enhances their sweetness and adds a depth of flavor. If you choose to roast your own, wrap them in foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
- Don't Over-Process: Over-processing can make the hummus slightly bitter. Process until smooth, but don't let it run for too long.
- Get Creative with Garnishes: Experiment with different garnishes to add visual appeal and extra flavor. Everything from pomegranate seeds to toasted pepitas can work wonderfully.
- Storage: Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Beet Hummus: A Healthy & Delicious Choice
This beet hummus recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy and nutritious snack option. Beets are packed with antioxidants and nutrients, while chickpeas are an excellent source of protein and fiber. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful dip as a healthy alternative to traditional dips and spreads! Remember to share your culinary creations using #beetHummus #healthyrecipe #homemadehummus on social media!
