Are you looking for a quick and healthy appetizer or a flavorful addition to your next meal? Look no further! This caramelised onion hummus recipe is incredibly easy to make, bursting with flavour, and guaranteed to impress your guests. Forget store-bought hummus – this homemade version is far superior, offering a delightful sweetness from the caramelised onions that perfectly complements the earthy chickpeas. It's the perfect example of delicious dishes achievable with simple ingredients and minimal effort, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- ¼ cup tahini
- ¼ cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water (as needed for consistency)
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, paprika, a drizzle of olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Caramelise the Onions
This step is key to the deliciousness of this recipe! Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced red onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelised, about 20-25 minutes. Be patient; the longer they cook, the sweeter they become. The onions should be soft and a rich brown colour.
Step 2: Prepare the Hummus
While the onions are caramelizing, you can prepare the rest of the ingredients. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Process until completely smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Adjust
Add the caramelised onions to the food processor and pulse until just combined. You want to retain some texture from the onions. If the hummus is too thick, add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of elegance. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, crackers, or as a topping for your favourite dishes. This healthy meals option is incredibly versatile!
Tips for the Best Caramelised Onion Hummus:
- Don't rush the caramelisation: Low and slow is the key to perfectly caramelised onions. High heat will burn them before they caramelise properly.
- Use good quality tahini: The flavour of the tahini significantly impacts the overall taste of the hummus.
- Adjust the seasonings to your preference: Feel free to add more or less lemon juice, garlic, or spices depending on your taste.
- Make it ahead: This hummus tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavours to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favourite hot sauce for a kick.
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add a roasted red pepper for extra sweetness and colour.
- Herb Hummus: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or dill for a fresh, vibrant flavour.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and specific ingredients used. A general estimate is approximately 150-200 calories, with a good source of protein and fiber. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
This caramelised onion hummus is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – a delicious, healthy, and effortlessly impressive dip that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!