Reaching middle age often means developing a passion for various kinds of hummus.
Anonymous, over 45.
Middle age is where I fit in – and flavours like caramelised onion, chili, and sweet potato are some of my preferred methods to enhance hummus. The traditional hummus – consisting of chickpeas, garlic, tahini, salt, lemon, and olive oil is a magnificent concoction, yet adding a little creativity now and then honors the humble chickpea and this Middle Eastern classic. I’ve crafted a beetroot-flavored variation here, which is creamy, earthy, and incredibly tasty when paired with dukkah and flatbread.
Ingredients:
- 250 g fresh, cooked beetroot (I prefer vacuum-packed beetroot from the grocery store or fruit market)
- 425 g can of chickpeas, thoroughly drained
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 heaped tablespoon tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- sea salt
- 1 teaspoon nigella seeds
- 2 teaspoons dukkah
Roughly chop the beetroot and finely mince the garlic. In a food processor, combine the beetroot, chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil, processing until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with sea salt, and perhaps add a touch more lemon juice for extra zest. Serve, topped with nigella seeds and dukkah, accompanied by flatbread or seed crackers. It’s also fantastic spread on rye toast, topped with sliced avocado or a poached egg.
**Title: Delving into the Colorful Realm of Beetroot Hummus**
Hummus, a cherished dip from the Middle East, has become a staple in various homes globally. Traditionally crafted from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, this creamy treat has experienced multiple adaptations over the years. One such creative modification is incorporating beetroots, leading to a vibrant and healthful beetroot hummus.
**The Nutritional Dynamo: Beetroots**
Beetroots are celebrated not just for their vivid hue but also for their noteworthy health advantages. High in vital nutrients, beetroots serve as an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese. They are also rich in antioxidants, especially betalains, linked to decreased inflammation and enhanced detoxification.
**Why Incorporate Beetroots into Hummus?**
1. **Color and Texture:** Adding beetroots changes the traditional beige hummus into an appealing pink or deep red dip. The earthy sweetness of beetroots complements the nutty and tangy notes of classic hummus, establishing a distinct flavor experience.
2. **Nutritional Enhancement:** Adding beetroots to hummus not only boosts its nutritional value but also heightens the antioxidant presence, transforming it into a healthier choice.
3. **Flexibility:** Beetroot hummus can be utilized in diverse ways, from serving as a dip for veggies and pita bread to being a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Its eye-catching color makes it an enticing choice for any appetizer platter.
**How to Create Beetroot Hummus**
Whipping up beetroot hummus at home is straightforward and necessitates just a handful of ingredients:
**Ingredients:**
– 1 medium beetroot, either roasted or boiled
– 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons of tahini
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– 1 clove of garlic
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper, according to taste
– Optional: cumin, paprika, or fresh herbs for additional flavor
**Instructions:**
1. If employing raw beetroot, roast or boil until tender. Let it cool, then peel and chop into chunks.
2. In a food processor, mix the beetroot, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Blend until smooth, adding a bit of water if necessary for the preferred consistency.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional spices or herbs as desired.
5. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and decorate with herbs or seeds if preferred.
**Serving Ideas**
Beetroot hummus complements a range of dishes. Pair it with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a nutritious snack. It also serves as a delicious spread on toast or in wraps, contributing both flavor and nutrition to your meals.
**Conclusion**
Beetroot hummus offers a delightful variation on a classic recipe, bringing a splash of color and enhanced nutrition. Whether you aim to incorporate more vegetables into your meals or simply wish to try something novel, beetroot hummus stands as a flexible and delicious choice that will certainly impress both in taste and appearance.
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