Save Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is a vibrant and flavorful twist on the classic chickpea dip. By incorporating the sweetness and smokiness of roasted red bell peppers, this recipe elevates a simple snack into a gourmet appetizer. It is the perfect addition to any gathering, offering a creamy texture and a rich, complex flavor profile that appeals to everyone.
Save This recipe is rooted in Middle Eastern cuisine but brings a modern flair with its bright orange hue and charred pepper infusion. Whether you roast your peppers fresh for a deep flavor or use jarred ones for convenience, the result is a healthy, protein-packed dip that outshines any store-bought alternative.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 medium red bell peppers (or 1 cup jarred roasted red peppers, drained), 1 small garlic clove, minced
- Legumes: 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- Pantry: 3 tbsp tahini, 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for serving), 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 lemon), 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional), 1/2 tsp salt, 2–4 tbsp cold water (as needed)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Peppers
- If using fresh peppers, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut peppers in half, remove seeds, and place cut side down on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes until skins are charred and blistered. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off skins and cool.
- Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- In a food processor, combine roasted red peppers, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and salt.
- Step 3: Blend to Creamy
- Blend until very smooth, scraping down sides as needed. Add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired creamy consistency is reached.
- Step 4: Season
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Drizzle with additional olive oil and garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve with pita, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For an even smoother consistency, you can peel the skins off the chickpeas before blending, though it is not required. If you find raw garlic too sharp, try using roasted garlic cloves for a mellower, sweeter flavor profile that complements the peppers perfectly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the food processor. For those who love deep smoky notes, increase the amount of smoked paprika or add a drop of liquid smoke. This hummus also works well with a garnish of toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this hummus as the centerpiece of a mezze platter alongside warm pita bread, crisp crackers, and fresh vegetable crudités. It also makes an excellent spread for Mediterranean-style sandwiches or wraps and pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
Save With a yield of 2 cups, this recipe provides approximately 4 to 6 servings. Each 1/4 cup serving contains about 120 calories, 7g of fat, 11g of carbohydrates, and 4g of protein, making it a nutritious and satisfying choice for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use jarred roasted red peppers instead of roasting fresh ones?
Absolutely. Jarred roasted red peppers work perfectly and save significant prep time. Simply drain them well before blending to avoid excess moisture that could affect consistency.
- → What's the best way to achieve a smooth consistency?
Blend the ingredients thoroughly for 2-3 minutes, scraping down the processor bowl as needed. Add cold water gradually, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired creaminess.
- → How can I adjust the flavor intensity?
For milder garlic, substitute roasted garlic cloves. For heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Taste after blending and adjust salt and lemon juice to your preference.
- → What are the best serving suggestions?
Serve with warm pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetable sticks. It also works wonderfully as a sandwich spread or as part of a mezze platter with olives and cheeses.
- → How long does homemade hummus keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving after storage, drizzle with fresh olive oil to revive moisture and flavor.
- → Is this truly gluten-free?
Yes, all primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free. However, always verify labels on store-bought tahini and canned chickpeas to ensure no cross-contamination during processing.