Vibrant Beetroot Hummus

An Epicurean Adventure to: Lebanon – Discovering Vibrant Beetroot Hummus

Embark on a delightful culinary journey to the heart of the Middle East with our vibrant and incredibly easy beetroot hummus recipe, inspired by the rich gastronomic traditions of beautiful Lebanon! This captivating dip is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that awakens the senses, bringing a splash of color and a burst of flavor to any table. We are absolutely head over heels for the simplicity and incredible taste of this Lebanese-inspired delight, a true testament to the region’s passion for fresh, wholesome ingredients.

The moment you lay eyes on this hummus, its gorgeous, striking pink hue instantly catches your attention, promising something truly special and inviting. But the visual appeal is merely the beginning of its charm. The taste profile is even more remarkable, a harmonious blend that perfectly marries the earthy, naturally sweet notes of beetroot with the zesty tang of fresh lemon. Complementing these primary flavors are the warm, aromatic undertones of ground cumin and the rich, nutty depth of creamy tahini. This combination creates a complex yet utterly approachable flavor that is both comforting and exciting, making it a standout dish.

One of the aspects we particularly adore is the natural sweetness that beetroot generously contributes, subtly enhancing the traditional hummus experience without the need for added sugars. This addition makes it not only delicious but also naturally appealing to a wide range of palates. Whether you’re serving it as a light appetizer, a hearty snack, or a vibrant side dish, this healthy beetroot hummus is incredibly versatile. It pairs exquisitely with warm, fluffy pita bread, various flatbreads, or a crusty loaf of artisanal bread, making every bite a truly satisfying experience. It’s the perfect dip for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties.

While classic hummus, known for its irresistibly creamy texture and rich flavor derived from chickpeas, tahini, and lemon, remains a beloved staple across Lebanon and the wider Middle East, variations like our beetroot hummus showcase the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of Lebanese culinary innovation. Such creative twists allow food enthusiasts to explore familiar flavors through an exciting new lens, offering both a unique visual spectacle and a delightful taste variation. This inventive approach to traditional dishes reflects the vibrant spirit of Lebanese cuisine, and we believe this commitment to fresh, exciting food is something to truly celebrate and savor!

Who Invented Hummus? A Culinary Enigma

Hummus, often spelled ‘houmous’, ‘humus’, ‘hommus’, or ‘hommos’ across various regions and transliterations, is a dish whose very name originates from the Arabic word for ‘chickpea’. This immensely popular and globally cherished dip boasts a fascinatingly rich history, with its earliest known recipes dating back to texts from the 13th century in Cairo, Egypt. It holds an undeniably prominent and beloved place in a myriad of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, including but not limited to Turkish, Syrian, Lebanese, and Egyptian culinary traditions. Its ubiquity across these cultures underscores its significance as a dietary staple and a symbol of shared gastronomic heritage, often gracing tables at every meal.

Despite its ancient origins and widespread popularity, the precise question of who exactly invented the classic hummus recipe remains a topic of ongoing, passionate, and sometimes contentious debate among culinary historians and food enthusiasts alike. Each country in the region proudly lays claim to its invention, contributing to a vibrant cultural discussion about national identity and culinary pride. This friendly rivalry often leads to “hummus wars,” where chefs compete to create the largest or most delicious batch, further cementing its cultural importance. While there are historical mentions of chickpea pastes throughout the Levant, definitive proof of modern hummus as we know it is elusive.

We find that this profound and insightful quote from Oren Rosenfeld, the acclaimed writer and director of Hummus! The Movie, encapsulates the essence of this historical conundrum perfectly:

“Hummus is a Middle Eastern food claimed by all and owned by none.”

This sentiment beautifully expresses the shared cultural legacy of hummus, a dish that transcends borders and unites people through its simple yet profound appeal. It’s a testament to how food can become a universal language, cherished by diverse communities and deeply woven into their social fabric. And with that perfect thought in mind, let’s gracefully move along from the historical debates to what’s truly important for our culinary adventure today – creating this absolutely delightful and healthy beetroot hummus recipe!

Fast Facts – Lebanon: The Jewel of the Middle East

Lebanon, a country steeped in history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, offers a fascinating backdrop to our culinary exploration. Known for its stunning Mediterranean coastline, ancient Phoenician ruins, majestic cedars, and buzzing modern cities, Lebanon is a land of striking contrasts and profound beauty, much like its diverse and flavorful cuisine. This small nation packs an incredible punch in terms of history, hospitality, and gastronomic delights.

What is Hummus? Understanding the Foundation

At its very core, traditional hummus is a remarkably nutritious and utterly delicious paste or dip, celebrated worldwide for its creamy texture and earthy, savory flavor. It’s meticulously crafted from a harmonious blend of foundational ingredients, each playing a critical role in its iconic profile: perfectly cooked chickpeas (also universally known as garbanzo beans), rich tahini paste (made from finely ground sesame seeds), pungent fresh garlic, bright and zesty fresh lemon juice, and a generous drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This combination of simple, fresh ingredients creates a complex and satisfying taste that is truly unique.

While this classic combination forms the robust backbone of all authentic hummus, the true beauty of this versatile dish lies in its incredible adaptability. If you’re looking to “jazz it up” and explore new flavor dimensions, the culinary world of hummus offers endless possibilities for experimentation. You can effortlessly infuse it with various additional flavors and ingredients – from sweet roasted red peppers and sun-dried tomatoes to vibrant fresh herbs, smoky paprika, or exotic spices – to create unique types of hummus. Each variation boasts its own distinctive taste profile, character, and often, a stunning visual appeal. Our beetroot hummus is a prime example of such a delightful and healthy variation, demonstrating how simple, colorful additions can transform a timeless classic into an exciting new culinary experience, perfect for those seeking a twist on the traditional.

Is Beetroot Hummus Good for You? Unpacking the Health Benefits

Absolutely, beetroot hummus is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrition that offers a myriad of significant health benefits. This vibrant dip is packed with ingredients known for their substantial contributions to overall well-being, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet:

• Beetroot: A Nutrient-Dense Vegetable: Beetroot itself is an exceptional source of vital vitamins and minerals. It provides a generous amount of vitamin C, essential for a robust immune system, and folate (vitamin B9), which is crucial for cell growth and function. It also supplies important minerals like iron, vital for oxygen transport throughout the body and preventing anemia, and potassium, important for fluid balance and blood pressure regulation. Beyond vitamins and minerals, beetroot is uniquely rich in betalains, powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that give beets their distinctive deep red-purple color. These betalains are celebrated for their strong anti-inflammatory properties and their role in supporting detoxification processes within the body.
• Cardiovascular Health Booster: One of the most remarkable benefits of beetroot is its profound positive impact on cardiovascular health. Beetroot contains natural nitrates, which, once consumed, the body converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a potent vasodilator, meaning it helps to relax and widen blood vessels. This leads to improved blood flow, better circulation, and potentially a significant reduction in blood pressure levels, making beetroot hummus a truly heart-healthy choice.
• Chickpeas: Fiber and Protein Powerhouse: The main ingredient in all hummus recipes, chickpeas, are an excellent source of dietary fiber. Fiber is vital for maintaining optimal digestive health, promoting regularity, and contributing significantly to a prolonged feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management. They are also rich in high-quality plant-based protein, making this dip particularly satisfying and an ideal option for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to increase their plant protein intake. Furthermore, chickpeas provide complex carbohydrates, offering sustained energy release and helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.
• Tahini: Healthy Fats and Minerals: Tahini, a creamy paste made from ground sesame seeds, contributes healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are highly beneficial for heart health and can help lower bad cholesterol levels. It’s also a good source of essential minerals like calcium, which supports strong bones, magnesium, important for muscle and nerve function, and phosphorus, crucial for energy metabolism and bone health.
• Olive Oil: The Mediterranean Elixir: Extra virgin olive oil, a cornerstone of the health-promoting Mediterranean diet, is renowned for its high content of monounsaturated fatty acids and powerful antioxidants like polyphenols. It contributes significantly to heart health, helps reduce systemic inflammation, and enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins present in the hummus.
• Lemon Juice: Vitamin C and Antioxidants: Fresh lemon juice not only adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the dip but also boosts the overall vitamin C content. Vitamin C is another powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen production, further enhancing the nutritional profile of this wholesome dip.
• Homemade Advantage: By making beetroot hummus fresh at home, you gain complete control over all the ingredients. Crucially, you can manage the amount of added oil and salt. Many shop-bought versions often contain higher quantities of these, as well as unwanted preservatives, artificial flavors, and additives. Preparing it yourself ensures a cleaner, healthier, fresher product that is perfectly tailored to your dietary preferences and health goals.

Key Ingredients and Smart Substitutions for Your Beetroot Hummus

Crafting the perfect beetroot hummus relies on a few core ingredients that come together to create its signature flavor and creamy texture. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need and how you can adapt the recipe to perfectly suit your pantry, preferences, and dietary needs.

**For the precise measurements and full list of ingredients, please refer to the detailed recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this post.

Cooked Beetroot: The Star of the Show

The beetroot is undeniably the star ingredient, providing both the stunning color and the unique earthy sweetness to our hummus. For unparalleled convenience and to significantly cut down on preparation time, we highly recommend opting for pre-cooked beets. These are readily available in the produce or refrigerated vegetable aisle of most grocery stores, usually packed in vacuum-sealed packages, ready to be used straight away with no fuss.

However, if you relish the process of cooking from scratch and prefer the freshest possible ingredients, preparing your own beets is an excellent choice! You’ll find detailed instructions below on how to perfectly roast or boil fresh beets to achieve that ideal tenderness and flavor profile needed for your hummus. Home-cooked beets often have a slightly richer, more nuanced flavor.

A Crucial Tip: Please, under no circumstances, use pickled beets found in jars or bottles. The strong, acidic vinegar flavor from pickled beets will overwhelmingly dominate and adversely affect the delicate balance of flavors in your hummus, resulting in an unpalatable outcome. Stick to fresh or simply cooked beets for the best and most authentic results.

Canned Chickpeas: The Creamy Base

Chickpeas form the essential creamy foundation of any hummus. To create this delicious beetroot hummus, you’ll require approximately 240 grams of drained chickpeas. This quantity typically corresponds to the contents of a standard 400-gram (or 15-ounce) can of chickpeas once the liquid (aquafaba) has been fully drained and discarded (or saved for other recipes!). Don’t worry too much about achieving an exact weight; if you have a slightly higher or lower amount, it will generally not significantly impact the final product. As long as you’re in the general ballpark range, your hummus will be delightful!

If you prefer to use dried chickpeas, a more traditional approach that some believe yields a superior flavor and creaminess, you’ll need to plan ahead. First, soak the dried chickpeas overnight in plenty of cold water. The next day, drain and thoroughly rinse them before cooking until they become exquisitely tender. This usually takes longer than using canned chickpeas (often 1-2 hours of simmering), but many find the resulting flavor and texture to be worth the extra effort.

Fresh Lemon Juice: The Zesty Brightness

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is absolutely essential for imparting that crucial bright, tangy, and refreshing flavor that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients, elevating the hummus and preventing it from tasting flat. Typically, a medium-sized lemon will yield approximately 30 milliliters (or 2 tablespoons) of juice. If your lemons are smaller or less juicy, you might need to use more than one to achieve the desired amount. Always taste and adjust, as lemons vary in acidity.

For an extra burst of aromatic zing and a more complex citrus note, consider adding a dash of finely grated lemon zest along with the juice. Just be sure to zest only the yellow part of the peel, avoiding the bitter white pith, which can impart an undesirable bitterness to your hummus.

Tahini: The Silky Smoothness and Nutty Depth

Tahini, a smooth paste made from finely ground sesame seeds, is arguably one of the most vital ingredients for achieving the characteristic silky-smooth texture and subtle, nutty depth that is a hallmark of authentic, high-quality hummus. It contributes significantly to both the luxurious mouthfeel and the complex, earthy flavor profile. When choosing tahini, look for a good quality brand that is smooth, pourable, and made from hulled sesame seeds, as thicker, pastier tahini can make your hummus a bit heavy and less creamy.

Tahini Substitutions: If you find yourself without tahini but have raw or roasted sesame seeds on hand, you can quickly make your own sesame seed paste! Simply pan-roast the sesame seeds lightly until fragrant (if using raw), then process them in a food processor with a touch of neutral-flavored olive oil until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency similar to store-bought tahini. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a different flavor or have a sesame allergy, you can replace tahini with another neutral-flavored nut butter, such as cashew butter or even almond butter, which will also contribute a creamy texture and subtle richness, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Flavorings: The Aromatic Core

The aromatic core and warming spice notes of our beetroot hummus come from two humble yet powerful ingredients: garlic and ground cumin. These spices are fundamental to Middle Eastern cuisine and add a profound depth of flavor that complements both the chickpeas and the beetroot beautifully.

Garlic: We recommend starting with one average-sized garlic clove, minced or crushed, but feel free to adjust this to your personal preference. If you love a bolder, more pungent garlic flavor, add a little more. For a milder touch, use half a clove or even roast the garlic before adding it for a sweeter, more mellow, and less intense taste.

Cumin: Ground cumin provides a warm, earthy, slightly smoky, and subtly spicy note that beautifully marries the flavors of the chickpeas and the beetroot. The amount given in the recipe (1 teaspoon) is a well-balanced starting point, but you can always add a pinch more to taste, especially if you enjoy its distinctive aroma.

We’ll also be adding essential seasonings like salt, preferably coarse sea salt, and a few fresh grinds of black pepper. Always do a taste test before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your exact preferences – seasoning to taste is absolutely key for achieving perfect, balanced hummus!

Olive Oil: The Finishing Touch

Olive oil is not just an ingredient; it’s a vital component that enhances both the flavor and the luxurious texture of hummus. For the best flavor and an authentic Mediterranean touch, our strong preference is to use high-quality virgin or extra virgin olive oil in this recipe. Its fruity, slightly peppery, and sometimes herbaceous notes beautifully enhance the overall taste of the hummus and contribute significantly to its desirable smooth, rich texture. It also helps with emulsification.

However, if you don’t have olive oil readily on hand, or if you simply prefer a different flavor profile, you can easily substitute it with a neutral-flavored oil. Good alternatives that will provide the necessary moisture and smoothness without imparting a strong flavor of their own include sunflower oil, canola oil, or corn oil. While the subtle nuances of flavor will differ, the texture will still be wonderfully creamy.

How to Make the Easiest Beetroot Hummus: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating this delicious and vibrant beetroot hummus is incredibly simple, requiring minimal effort and time. With just a food processor and a few fresh ingredients, you can achieve a perfectly smooth and flavorful dip that will impress everyone. Follow these straightforward steps to achieve a perfectly smooth and flavorful dip:

• Combine Initial Ingredients: Begin by placing all the ingredients – specifically the cooked beetroot, drained chickpeas, fresh lemon juice, tahini, ground cumin, crushed garlic, coarse sea salt, and black pepper – into the bowl of your food processor. Ensure all items are in the bowl before proceeding.
• Process to a Coarse Paste: Secure the lid firmly on your food processor and whiz the mixture until it transforms into a relatively coarse, yet well-combined, paste. You want to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly broken down and integrated at this initial stage.
• Scrape and Add Oil: Turn off the food processor and use a spatula to carefully scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. This crucial step ensures that all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and nothing is left unblended. Now, add the specified amount of olive oil to the mixture.
• Achieve Desired Consistency: Re-secure the lid and continue whizzing the mixture. Process it longer for an extra smooth, almost silken hummus, or for a shorter time if you prefer a slightly chunkier, more rustic texture. Keep processing until you achieve your preferred consistency – the longer you blend, the creamier it will become.
• Serve and Garnish: Once happy with the texture, transfer your freshly made vibrant beetroot hummus to a beautiful serving bowl. For an appealing presentation and an extra layer of flavor, you can scatter some black sesame seeds, a fresh drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs over the top as a garnish. That’s it – your vibrant, healthy, and homemade beetroot hummus is ready to be enjoyed immediately!

Optional Fresh Herbs That Pair Beautifully with Beetroot Hummus

While our beetroot hummus is incredibly flavorful and satisfying on its own, incorporating fresh herbs can add an additional layer of complexity, brightness, and aromatic allure. These specific herbs have been chosen because they beautifully complement the earthy, sweet, and tangy notes of beetroot and the classic hummus ingredients, enhancing the overall sensory experience of this vibrant dip:

• Dill: Offers a bright, slightly tangy, and subtly anise-like flavor that beautifully cuts through the richness of the hummus, adding a refreshing and herbaceous note. It’s particularly good with earthy vegetables.
• Parsley: A classic and indispensable choice for Middle Eastern dishes, fresh parsley adds a clean, verdant freshness and a vibrant color contrast, making the hummus even more appealing. Both flat-leaf (Italian) and curly parsley varieties work exceptionally well.
• Mint: For an incredibly cool and refreshing twist, a hint of fresh mint can be truly transformative. It introduces a lively, invigorating element that is especially delightful and surprising in warmer weather or as a palate cleanser.
• Coriander (Cilantro): If you enjoy its distinctive and often polarizing taste, fresh coriander (also known as cilantro) imparts a bright, almost citrusy and slightly peppery note that can add an exotic and complex touch to your beetroot hummus.
• Thyme: Aromatic and slightly floral, fresh thyme can lend a sophisticated, earthy undertone that harmonizes wonderfully with the beetroot and the warm spice of cumin, adding a layer of subtle elegance.

You can finely chop any of these fresh herbs and stir them directly into the finished hummus for an integrated flavor, or simply use them as a beautiful and fragrant garnish just before serving to add visual appeal and a burst of fresh aroma.

Creative and Delicious Serving Suggestions for Beetroot Hummus

The versatility of beetroot hummus knows no bounds! Its vibrant color, creamy texture, and delicious flavor make it a fantastic, healthy addition to almost any meal or snack. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an impressive appetizer, here are numerous creative ways to enjoy your homemade dip:

• With Bread & Crackers:
  • Scoop generously onto warm, crusty artisanal bread or toasted sourdough slices for a comforting and satisfying snack.
  • Spread on crispy crostini for an elegant and colorful appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining.
  • Serve with fluffy pita bread, warmed gently in the oven or on a stovetop, for optimal enjoyment and softness.
  • Pair with various types of crackers, from plain water biscuits to seeded varieties, for a simple yet satisfying bite.
  • Spread on soft flatbreads as a base for mini pizzas, open-faced sandwiches, or vibrant wraps.
  • Enjoy with homemade pita chips, baked or fried until crisp, for an extra delightful crunch.
• In Sandwiches & Wraps:
  • Use as a flavourful, healthy sauce or spread inside your favourite sandwich or burger, adding moisture, a creamy texture, and a significant nutrient boost.
  • Spread generously inside a whole wheat wrap with fresh vegetables (like spinach, cucumber, and bell peppers) and grilled chicken, falafel, or halloumi for a quick, wholesome, and delicious meal.
  • A fantastic and colorful filling for vibrant, artfully sliced vegetable rolls, perfect for meal prep or a light lunch.
  • Spread on breakfast bagels or toast, topped with avocado slices or a fried egg, for a healthy, protein-packed, and visually appealing start to your day.
• With Vegetables & Salads:
  • An excellent and eye-catching beetroot dip for a colorful platter of fresh raw vegetables like crisp carrot sticks, cool cucumber slices, vibrant bell pepper strips, or crunchy celery.
  • Dollop on top of avocado toast for an elevated, colorful breakfast, brunch, or snack that’s rich in healthy fats.
  • Use as a creamy, flavorful salad topping or whisk it into your homemade salad dressing for a vibrant and nutrient-rich twist.
  • Serve as a delectable accompaniment to roasted vegetables, such as tender asparagus, charred broccoli florets, or caramelized sweet potatoes.
  • Create impressive stuffed mushrooms with a dollop of hummus and other savory fillings for a delightful appetizer.
  • Use as a vibrant and flavorful filling for roasted or fresh stuffed red peppers, creating a meal that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
• Unique & Creative Pairings:
  • Dollop generously onto savory pancakes or vegetable fritters for a delicious, creamy topping that adds a pop of color.
  • A fantastic and refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats like chicken skewers, lamb chops, or flaky fish, offering a cooling contrast to rich flavors.
  • Use as a unique and healthy condiment for homemade veggie burgers, adding creaminess, flavor, and an attractive pink hue.
  • Transform it into a delicious, vibrant nacho dip, perfect for entertaining friends and family.
  • Serve as a vibrant topping for baked sweet potatoes or regular jacket potatoes – the bright pink hummus looks absolutely incredible with the bright orange or creamy white potato!
  • Toss with warm pasta for a quick and healthy pasta sauce that’s both flavorful and visually appealing.
  • Mix into a grain bowl or a Buddha bowl to add creamy texture, rich flavor, and a nutritional boost.
  • A delightful dip for homemade potato wedges or crispy oven-baked fries, elevating a classic snack.
  • Use sparingly as a vibrant and healthy pizza topping, adding a unique twist to your favorite pie.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Your Beetroot Hummus

Proper storage is essential to enjoying your homemade beetroot hummus for as long as possible while maintaining its fresh taste, vibrant color, and creamy texture. Following these guidelines will help ensure your delicious dip stays perfect and safe for when you need it, minimizing waste and maximizing enjoyment.

Refrigeration

When stored correctly in an airtight container, your homemade beetroot hummus will maintain its freshness, quality, and flavor for approximately 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. To help prevent it from drying out and to preserve its vibrant pink color, you can drizzle a thin, protective layer of extra virgin olive oil over the surface of the hummus before sealing the container. This creates an effective barrier against air exposure and helps keep it moist and appealing.

Can You Freeze Beetroot Hummus? Yes, and Here’s How!

Absolutely, beetroot hummus is wonderfully freezer-friendly, making it an excellent option for meal prep or preserving a large batch! Freezing is a fantastic and practical way to extend the shelf life of your dip, effectively preventing food waste, especially if you’ve made a double batch or have an abundance of fresh beets to use up. It also means you’ll always have a delicious, ready-to-go dip or spread conveniently on hand whenever a craving strikes or unexpected guests arrive, saving you time and effort.

• Preparing for Freezing: To freeze hummus, transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It’s important to leave a small amount of headroom (about half an inch to an inch) at the top of the container to allow for slight expansion as the hummus freezes, preventing the container from cracking.
• Portion Control: For ultimate convenience and easier portion control, you can also freeze hummus in smaller, individual quantities. Ice cube trays are excellent for this purpose; simply spoon the hummus into the compartments, freeze until solid, then pop out the frozen cubes and transfer them to a larger freezer-safe bag. This allows you to thaw just the amount you need, reducing waste.
• Thawing Instructions: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen hummus, the best and safest method for thawing is to transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly overnight. Alternatively, for quicker thawing, you can leave it on the counter for a few hours, though ensure it doesn’t stay at room temperature for too long, especially in warm environments.
• Restoring Consistency: Once thawed, it’s natural for the texture of hummus to change slightly; it might appear a bit firmer or show some separation. Don’t worry, this is normal! Give it a good stir with a spoon or whisk to bring back its creamy texture. If it still feels too thick or a little dry, you may need to add a small amount of olive oil or a splash of water (or even a tiny bit more fresh lemon juice) and mix thoroughly to adjust the consistency back to your desired smoothness.
• Texture and Flavor Note: Please note that while freezing and thawing can slightly alter the texture of hummus (it may not be quite as perfectly smooth and creamy as freshly made hummus right out of the food processor), the delicious taste and all its nutritional benefits will remain completely unaffected. It will still be a wonderfully tasty, healthy, and convenient dip to enjoy!

More Delicious Dips and Spreads You Might Enjoy

If you loved making and enjoying this vibrant beetroot hummus, you’re in for a treat! Our extensive collection of homemade dips and spreads offers a variety of unique flavors and delightful textures to explore. These recipes are perfect for entertaining, healthy snacking, quick lunches, or simply adding an extra burst of flavor and excitement to your everyday meals. Dive into these other delightful options and expand your culinary repertoire:

Easy Beetroot Hummus: The Full Recipe

Easy Beetroot Hummus

You will absolutely love this quick and easy beetroot hummus! Its intensely vibrant color and rich, earthy flavors make it an instant favorite. Perfectly balanced with a bright zing from fresh lemon, a comforting warmth from cumin, and a nutty depth from tahini, the beetroot itself contributes a lovely touch of natural sweetness. This versatile, healthy dip serves wonderfully as a nutritious spread on warm pita bread, crusty artisan bread, or as a delightful dip for fresh vegetables and crackers.

5 from 65 votes

Course:
Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine:
International, Middle Eastern, Lebanese

Prep Time:
5 minutes

Total Time:
5 minutes

Servings:
6 servings

Calories:
179kcal

Author:
Maretha Corbett

Ingredients

• 250 gram cooked beetroot
• 240 gram chickpeas – canned, drained
• 30 millilitre lemon juice – freshly squeezed (equivalent to about one medium lemon’s juice)
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 teaspoon cumin (ground)
• 1 teaspoon crushed garlic (or 1 medium clove, minced)
• 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt (adjust to your taste preference)
• Few grinds of black pepper (adjust to your taste preference)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin recommended for best flavor)

Instructions

1. Place the cooked beetroot, drained chickpeas, fresh lemon juice, tahini, ground cumin, crushed garlic, coarse sea salt, and black pepper into the bowl of a food processor. Whiz all these ingredients until they form a coarse paste.
2. Stop the food processor and use a spatula to quickly stir and scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. This ensures everything is thoroughly mixed and incorporated.
3. Add the olive oil to the mixture. Re-secure the lid and whiz again until you achieve the consistency you prefer. Whiz longer for an extra smooth, luxuriously creamy hummus, or for a shorter time if you like a slightly chunkier texture.
4. Once the hummus reaches your preferred smoothness, spoon it into a beautiful serving dish. Serve immediately with warm pita bread, your favorite crackers, or fresh crusty bread. Garnish with an additional drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or black sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your vibrant, homemade beetroot hummus!

**Nutritional data disclaimer**

Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is calculated by a third party, and we cannot guarantee its absolute accuracy. We strive our best to give you the most precise information possible, but we do not take responsibility for any potential errors that may be present. Furthermore, the nutritional value of this recipe may fluctuate depending on the specific brands and products you choose to use. For personalized advice regarding your dietary needs, we highly recommend consulting with a qualified healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.

Nutrition

Calories: 179kcal |
Carbohydrates: 17g |
Protein: 5g |
Fat: 11g |
Saturated Fat: 1g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 6g |
Sodium: 431mg |
Potassium: 287mg |
Fiber: 4g |
Sugar: 5g |
Vitamin A: 33IU |
Vitamin C: 5mg |
Calcium: 37mg |
Iron: 2mg

For essential food safety advice, including comprehensive guidance on food allergies, please refer to official health resources.