This Red Lentil Hummus is a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional hummus. Made with cooked red lentils, tahini, and a hint of cumin, it’s a perfect dip for vegetables, pita bread, or crackers. The fresh coriander and chili flakes garnish add a pop of color and flavor, making it an irresistible appetizer or snack.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 20 minutes
- Total: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 200 g dried red lentils (1 cup | 7 oz)
- 3 Tbsp tahini
- 1/2 Tsp cumin
- 1/2 Tsp salt
- 180 ml ice-cold water (3/4 cup)
- Juice of one lemon
Garnish
- Fresh coriander
- Chili flakes
Directions
Cook the Lentils
- Rinse Lentils: Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Boil Lentils: In a medium pot, add the lentils and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and fully cooked.
- Drain and Cool: Drain any excess water and let the lentils cool slightly.
Prepare the Hummus
- Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine the cooked lentils, tahini, cumin, salt, lemon juice, and ice-cold water. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
Serve
- Transfer: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh coriander and chili flakes.
- Enjoy: Serve with your favorite vegetables, pita bread, or crackers.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Dip: Serve as a dip with carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or celery.
- With Bread: Enjoy with warm pita bread or pita chips.
- As a Spread: Use as a spread in sandwiches or wraps for a healthy, flavorful addition.
Cooking Tips
- Soft Lentils: Ensure the lentils are fully cooked and soft before blending to achieve a smooth texture.
- Adjust Flavors: Adjust the amount of lemon juice and tahini to suit your taste preferences.
- Spice Level: For a spicier hummus, add more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Nutritional Benefits
- High Protein and Fiber: High in protein and fiber from red lentils.
- Healthy Fats: Contains healthy fats from tahini.
- Rich in Nutrients: Rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron and magnesium.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian and Vegan: Suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
- Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free: Gluten-free and dairy-free.
- Oil-Free Option: Can be made oil-free by omitting any additional oil.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: The hummus can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Alternative: A healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional hummus.
- Easy Preparation: Easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- Versatile: Versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways.
Conclusion
Red Lentil Hummus is a delicious and nutritious dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture and rich flavor, combined with the freshness of coriander and a hint of spice from chili flakes, make it a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it as a healthy snack, a party appetizer, or a tasty addition to your meals.