Hummus Beiruti is a spicy hummus dip or spread originating from the Middle East, it actually gets its name from the Arabic word for chickpeas. Hummus is a course or smooth paste made from chickpeas, tahini, and spices and it goes great with a wedge of flat bread, as a salad accompaniment, or with some vegetable wedges for dipping. Hummus Beiruti differs from Hummus only in the fact that chillies are added to the mix, and as a fan of hot food, I much prefer it – just don't go wild and add in some scotch bonnet chillies, it should be a gentle heat!In this recipe for hummus beiruti I used chickpeas from a can, if you use dried chickpeas you will need to let them soak in water overnight.I adore hummus, and this homemade recipe is so much better and healthier than store-bought. When combined with some grilled vegetable wedges, it's a very healthy starter or snack. The recipe is about as simple as it gets, and some of the ingredients I use I have marked as optional because they don't make a huge difference, they just enhance whats there. I add a bit more salt than most because a gritty sea salt seems to really bring it all together and give it more bite – the same reason I add the paprika.I always prefer to make this well in advance and to keep it covered in the refrigerator until I need it, and it should keep fresh a few days if covered – but its normally eaten in a day or two!
Ingredients
- 400 g chickpeas/garbanzo beans (1 can)
- 3 tbsp tahini
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large chilli pepper (chopped)
- 1 tsp garlic, peeled and chopped (or 2 cloves)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp coarse salt
Optional
- ½ tsp paprika
- lemon juice
- pinch of coriander
Instructions
- To a blender add the garlic, tahini, chilies and a little lemon juice (if using), and give it a quick pulse.
- Add in the chickpeas (save a 2-3 though for later) and reduce them down, and add 2 tbsp. of the olive oil.
- Blend to something close to your preferred consistency, adding more olive oil if necessary.
- Add the salt and paprika to taste, and blend to the consistency you desire.
- Decant into a bowl, dust with coriander, pop the chickpeas you kept aside in the middle and refrigerate until needed.
- Serve the hummus with some dipping bread (like pita) and/or vegetable wedges.
FAQ
What is hummus eaten with?
Hummus Beiruti is a perfect accompaniment to flat breads, grilled meats, picked vegetables and a staple of middle-eastern cuisine.
What is hummus good for?
Hummus is an inexpensive to make, and can be paired with inexpensive foods to make a healthy snack. Partnered with carrot, apple, and cucumber sticks it makes a nutritious addition to a school lunch box.
