Tired of the same old boring dips? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This spicy hummus recipe is the perfect solution for a quick weeknight snack, a delicious appetizer for your next gathering, or a vibrant addition to your healthy meal plan. Get ready to elevate your hummus game with a fiery kick that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference!)
- 1/4 cup ice water (or more, as needed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped fresh parsley, paprika, a drizzle of olive oil
Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: Add the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to a food processor.
- Process until smooth: Process until completely smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. This might take a few minutes.
- Adjust consistency: With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the ice water until you reach your desired consistency. Start with less water and add more as needed. You want a smooth and creamy texture, not too thick or too thin.
- Season to taste: Taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Remember, you can always add more spice later!
- Serve: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped parsley and paprika for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Tips for the Best Spicy Hummus:
- Use good quality tahini: The flavor of your hummus heavily relies on the tahini. Opt for a good quality tahini for the best results.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a delightful tang. Avoid using bottled lemon juice if possible.
- Adjust the spice: Start with a smaller amount of cayenne pepper and gradually increase it to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Chill for enhanced flavor: For the best flavor, cover and chill the hummus in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Variations:
- Roasted red pepper hummus: Add 1/2 cup of roasted red peppers for a smoky sweetness.
- Roasted garlic hummus: Use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Cilantro jalapeno hummus: Add 1/4 cup chopped cilantro and 1-2 jalapeños (seeded and minced) for a fresh, vibrant twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on serving size and added toppings)
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fat: 10-12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
This spicy hummus recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes you can easily prepare at home. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful dip! It's perfect for meal prepping, making it a great addition to your weekly healthy meals. This easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Let us know in the comments how you enjoyed your spicy hummus creation!