Tired of the same old hummus? Craving a vibrant, flavorful dip that's both healthy and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Roasted Carrot Hummus recipe is about to become your new favorite healthy meal addition, perfect for quick dinner ideas or a delightful appetizer. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your homemade cooking game and offers a delicious twist on a classic. This simple recipe is perfect for beginners, but seasoned cooks will appreciate the depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup water (plus more as needed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Toasted sesame seeds, chopped fresh parsley, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for garnish
Instructions:
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Roast the Carrots: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the chopped carrots with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. This roasting step brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots and adds a lovely depth of flavor to the hummus.
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Blend it all together: Once the carrots are cool enough to handle, add them to a food processor along with the tahini, lemon juice, remaining olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and 1/4 cup of water.
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Process until smooth: Blend until completely smooth and creamy, adding more water, a tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a bit more lemon juice, salt, or cumin depending on your preference.
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Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped fresh parsley, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an extra touch of elegance. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, crackers, or enjoy as a healthy dip for your favorite dishes.
Tips for the Best Roasted Carrot Hummus:
- Roasting is key: Don't skip the roasting step! It intensifies the carrot flavor and creates a smoother, richer hummus.
- Fresh is best: Using freshly squeezed lemon juice and minced garlic will make a noticeable difference in the taste.
- Adjust consistency: The amount of water you need will depend on the type of carrots and your preferred hummus consistency. Start with less and add more as needed.
- Get creative with garnishes: Experiment with different toppings like chopped nuts, pomegranate seeds, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added texture and flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Carrot Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sweet Carrot Hummus: Add a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Roasted Red Pepper Carrot Hummus: Roast some red peppers along with the carrots for a vibrant red color and smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 4-5g
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-4g
This roasted carrot hummus is a simple, healthy, and delicious recipe that's perfect for any occasion. It's a great example of how easy it is to create flavorful and nutritious homemade meals. Enjoy!