Red Lentil Hummus with Tahini and Lemon

This Red Lentil Hummus is a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional hummus, replacing chickpeas with red lentils for a slightly different flavor and texture. The combination of tahini, cumin, and lemon creates a rich, creamy dip that’s full of flavor, while the fresh coriander and chili flakes add a vibrant finish. This recipe is perfect as a dip for vegetables, pita bread, or crackers, and it’s also great as a spread for sandwiches or wraps.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 people

Cuisine

This Red Lentil Hummus is inspired by Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, where legumes and tahini are common ingredients. The use of red lentils adds a unique spin while maintaining the essence of traditional hummus.

Full List of 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

For Garnish:

• Fresh coriander, chopped
• Chili flakes, to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Cook the Lentils
   Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, add the lentils and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and fully cooked. Drain any excess water and allow the lentils to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Hummus
   Once the lentils have cooled, transfer them to a food processor. Add the tahini, cumin, salt, lemon juice, and ice-cold water. Blend everything together until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. If the hummus is too thick, add a little more water to adjust the consistency.

3. Serve
   Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and a sprinkle of chili flakes for some extra flavor and color.

4. Enjoy
   Serve your delicious red lentil hummus with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or crackers. It also works great as a spread for wraps or sandwiches.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 7 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 350 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Hummus is a staple in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean countries, typically made with chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil. This red lentil version offers a unique twist while maintaining the same creamy texture and flavorful profile. Red lentils provide a more subtle, mild taste compared to chickpeas, making this hummus light and smooth.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Nutritious: Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, this hummus is a wholesome snack.
2. Quick and Easy: The recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
3. Flavorful: The combination of tahini, cumin, and lemon creates a tangy, creamy, and savory dip.
4. Versatile: Serve it as a dip, spread, or topping, or even mix it into salads for extra flavor.
5. Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning and consistency to your liking, adding more lemon juice or tahini if desired.

Health Benefits

1. Red Lentils: Red lentils are high in protein, fiber, and iron, making them great for heart health, digestion, and energy levels.
2. Tahini: Rich in healthy fats, tahini adds a creamy texture while providing essential minerals like calcium and magnesium.
3. Cumin: Cumin is packed with antioxidants and has digestive properties.
4. Lemon: Lemon juice provides a burst of vitamin C, which helps boost immunity and promotes healthy skin.
5. Chili Flakes: Chili flakes contain capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and boosts metabolism.

Serving Suggestions

1. With Vegetables: Serve as a dip with carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or celery for a healthy snack.
2. With Pita Bread: Enjoy it with warm pita bread or pita chips for a classic Mediterranean appetizer.
3. As a Spread: Use as a spread in sandwiches or wraps for a creamy and healthy addition to your meal.
4. As a Salad Topping: Add a dollop of hummus to your salad for extra flavor and creaminess.

Cooking Tips

1. Cook Lentils Fully: Ensure that the lentils are cooked until tender and fully soft, as this will help achieve a smooth hummus texture.
2. Adjust the Consistency: If the hummus is too thick, add a bit more cold water to reach your desired consistency.
3. Add More Flavor: If you like a stronger flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice, tahini, or cumin.
4. Spice it Up: For a spicier version, increase the chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Red Lentil Hummus: Add more chili flakes or a fresh chili for extra heat.
2. Roasted Garlic Version: Roast a few garlic cloves and add them to the hummus for a deeper, milder garlic flavor.
3. Herbed Lentil Hummus: Mix in some fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil for added freshness.
4. Creamy Vegan Version: Swap the tahini for cashew butter or almond butter for a different creamy texture.

Conclusion

This Red Lentil Hummus with Tahini and Lemon is a simple yet delicious and nutritious dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a snack with vegetables, as a spread on sandwiches, or as a side with pita bread, it’s sure to be a hit. The combination of red lentils, tahini, and lemon gives it a light and refreshing flavor, while the fresh coriander and chili flakes add an extra burst of flavor.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use canned lentils, but make sure to drain and rinse them well to avoid excess liquid.

2. Can I make this hummus without tahini?
   Yes, you can substitute tahini with another nut butter like almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.

3. Can I add more spices to this hummus?
   Yes, feel free to add spices like paprika, turmeric, or garlic powder for extra flavor.

4. Can I make this hummus ahead of time?
   Yes, this hummus can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze the hummus?
   Yes, you can freeze this hummus for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

6. Can I make this hummus creamier?
   Yes, you can add more tahini or a tablespoon of olive oil to make the hummus creamier.

7. What can I serve this hummus with?
   Serve it with vegetables, pita bread, crackers, or use it as a spread in wraps or sandwiches.

8. Can I make this hummus spicier?
   Yes, you can add more chili flakes or even some fresh chopped chili for a spicier version.

9. Can I add more lemon juice?
   Yes, you can add more lemon juice for a tangier flavor, depending on your personal taste.

10. Can I add other vegetables to this hummus?
    Yes, you can blend in roasted red peppers, beets, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.