Reaching middle age largely involves becoming enthused about various types of hummus.
Unknown over 45 year old.
Middle age is my group – and caramelised onion, chili, and sweet potato rank among my top choices to elevate hummus. The traditional hummus – made of chickpeas, garlic, tahini, salt, lemon, and olive oil – is a wonderful creation; still, throwing in an interesting twist here and there is perfectly fine and pays tribute to the humble chickpea and this Middle Eastern staple. I’ve prepared a beetroot-infused variation here, which is creamy, earthy, and exceptionally tasty when paired with dukkah and flatbread.
Ingredients:
- 250 g fresh, cooked beetroot (I prefer to purchase vacuum packed beetroot from the grocery store or fruit market)
- 425 g can of chickpeas, thoroughly drained
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 heaping tablespoon tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- sea salt
- 1 teaspoon nigella seeds
- 2 teaspoons dukkah
Finely chop the beetroot and mince the garlic. Combine the beetroot, chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with sea salt to your liking and add a little more lemon juice if it needs more zest. Serve it, topped with nigella seeds and dukkah, alongside flatbread or seed crackers. It’s also fantastic spread on rye toast adorned with slices of avocado or a poached egg.
**Title: The Colorful Twist: Discovering Beetroot Hummus**
**Introduction**
Hummus, a cherished Middle Eastern dip, has been admired for its smooth texture and rich, nutty taste. Typically made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, this adaptable dish has undergone countless variations through the years. One such creative variation is beetroot hummus, which not only brings a colorful hue to the classic dip but also adds a distinctive earthy sweetness. In this article, we explore beetroot hummus, examining its health advantages, ways to prepare it, and culinary adaptability.
**Nutritional Advantages of Beetroot Hummus**
Beetroot hummus is not only visually appealing; it also provides numerous health rewards. Beetroots are abundant in vital nutrients like fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. They are recognized for enhancing blood circulation, reducing blood pressure, and boosting exercise performance owing to their high nitrate levels. When paired with protein-rich chickpeas and the healthy fats from tahini, beetroot hummus turns into a nutritional powerhouse, making it an outstanding selection for anyone looking for a nutritious snack or meal addition.
**Steps to Make Beetroot Hummus**
Making beetroot hummus at home is an uncomplicated process that demands few ingredients and minimal effort. Here’s a straightforward recipe to begin with:
**Ingredients:**
– 1 medium beetroot, roasted or boiled
– 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons of tahini
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1-2 cloves of garlic
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: a sprinkle of cumin or paprika for enhanced flavor
**Instructions:**
1. Prepare the beetroot by roasting it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes or boiling until tender. Allow to cool, then peel and chop into pieces.
2. In a food processor, combine the beetroot, chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Blitz until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices according to taste. Blend again to ensure ingredients are evenly mixed.
4. Modify the thickness with a little water or additional olive oil if necessary.
5. Transfer the hummus to a serving dish, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with fresh herbs or seeds if desired.
**Culinary Applications of Beetroot Hummus**
Beetroot hummus is as adaptable as its traditional version. Its bright color and unique taste make it an enticing addition to any dish. Here are some inventive ways to enjoy beetroot hummus:
– **Dip:** Present it as a dip alongside pita bread, veggie sticks, or crackers for a wholesome snack or appetizer.
– **Spread:** Use it as a spread on sandwiches, wraps, or toast for a colorful and nutritious substitute for mayonnaise or butter.
– **Salad Dressing:** Thicken it with some water or extra lemon juice to create a zesty salad dressing.
– **Bowl Base:** Incorporate it into grain bowls or Buddha bowls for an extra flavor and boost of nutrition.
– **Garnish:** Apply it as a vibrant topping for soups or roasted veggies.
**Conclusion**
Beetroot hummus is a wonderful variation on a classic dish, providing both visual appeal and health benefits. Its straightforward preparation and versatile uses make it a must-try for anyone wishing to incorporate a dash of color and nutrition into their cooking inventory. Whether you’re a hummus lover or new to this creamy delight, beetroot hummus is sure to charm with its unique taste and vivid color.