Red Lentil Hummus

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This Red Lentil Hummus is a creative twist on the classic hummus recipe, utilizing red lentils for a protein-packed, creamy dip. The tahini, lemon juice, and cumin create a rich and savory flavor profile, while the olive oil and paprika add a delightful finish. This hummus is perfect for serving with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or as a spread for sandwiches.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6 servings

Cuisine This recipe is a variation of traditional hummus, which originates from the Middle East. The use of red lentils gives it a slightly different texture and flavor while still maintaining the familiar essence of classic hummus.

Full List of Ingredients

  • 200g (1 cup or 7oz) red lentils
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • A pinch of cumin powder
  • A generous pinch of salt
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
  • For garnish: Olive oil, paprika, and coriander

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

  1. Cook the Lentils:

    • Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any dust or impurities.
    • In a medium pot, add the lentils and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and tender. Drain any excess water.

  2. Prepare the Hummus Mixture:

    • Once the lentils are cooked, transfer them to a blender or food processor. Add the olive oil, tahini, lemon juice, cumin powder, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic clove.
    • Add the 1/4 cup of water to help blend everything smoothly. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

  3. Blend the Hummus:

    • Process the mixture until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor as needed to ensure everything is well blended.

  4. Serve the Hummus:

    • Transfer the red lentil hummus to a serving dish. Drizzle with a little more olive oil, then sprinkle with paprika and fresh coriander for garnish.

  5. Enjoy:

    • Serve the hummus with pita bread, fresh vegetables like carrots and cucumber, or as a spread for sandwiches and wraps.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Sodium: 380 mg
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe Traditional hummus is a well-loved dish originating from the Middle East and Mediterranean regions. This red lentil version provides an alternative to the usual chickpeas, while still maintaining the creamy texture and rich flavors. It’s a healthy and filling option that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or spread.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This hummus takes just 30 minutes to prepare and doesn’t require any advanced cooking skills.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Red lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Combined with tahini, olive oil, and garlic, this hummus is not only delicious but also full of health benefits.
  • Versatile: You can enjoy it as a dip with vegetables, pita, or crackers, or use it as a spread for wraps, sandwiches, and even toast.

Health Benefits

  • High in Protein: Red lentils provide a good amount of plant-based protein, making this hummus an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.
  • Rich in Fiber: Lentils are rich in fiber, which helps with digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness.
  • Good Fats: Olive oil and tahini add healthy fats to the dish, supporting heart health and helping to absorb fat-soluble vitamins.

Serving Suggestions

  • With Fresh Veggies: Serve with sliced carrots, cucumber, celery, or bell peppers for a healthy snack or appetizer.
  • On Toast or Sandwiches: Use this red lentil hummus as a spread for whole-grain toast or a filling for wraps and sandwiches.
  • As a Dip: Serve with warm pita bread, crackers, or tortilla chips for a satisfying dip.

Cooking Tips

  • Adjust Consistency: If your hummus is too thick, you can add a bit more water or olive oil to reach your desired smoothness.
  • Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to add other spices or herbs, such as smoked paprika, cumin, or fresh cilantro, to change the flavor profile to your liking.
  • Chill Before Serving: For best results, chill the hummus in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Variations to Try

  • Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or a small chopped chili pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or mint to the hummus for extra flavor.
  • Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to enhance the citrusy flavor and make it even fresher.

Conclusion This Red Lentil Hummus is a healthy, protein-packed alternative to traditional hummus. With its smooth, creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a snack, appetizer, or spread, it’s sure to be a hit. The addition of cumin, tahini, and lemon gives it a rich, satisfying taste, while the fresh parsley and paprika provide a beautiful finishing touch.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different type of lentils? While red lentils are recommended for their smooth texture, you can experiment with other lentil types, though the texture may vary slightly.

  2. Can I make this hummus ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this hummus in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  3. Can I add other ingredients to the hummus? Absolutely! Feel free to add roasted garlic, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor variation.

  4. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  5. Can I make this recipe without tahini? Yes, you can skip the tahini if you prefer, but it adds a unique richness to the flavor. You could substitute it with more olive oil or cashew butter for a similar creaminess.

  6. How can I make this spicier? Add more chili flakes, a fresh chopped chili, or cayenne pepper to the mixture for extra heat.

  7. Can I make this recipe with dried lentils instead of canned? Yes, you can use dried lentils, just make sure to cook them thoroughly before blending them into the hummus.

  8. Can I use a food processor instead of a blender? Yes, a food processor works great for blending hummus and will help achieve the smooth texture.

  9. How do I know when the hummus is ready? The hummus should be smooth and creamy with a thick consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

  10. What can I serve this hummus with? You can serve this hummus with pita bread, vegetable sticks, crackers, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.

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