If you're a fan of hummus and love a little kick of spice, then smoked harissa hummus is a must-try. This flavorful twist on the classic dip combines the smoky heat of harissa with the creamy goodness of hummus. It's the perfect accompaniment to pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
What is Harissa?
Harissa is a North African chili paste made from roasted red peppers, chili peppers, garlic, spices, and olive oil. It adds a fiery kick to any dish and is commonly used in Moroccan, Tunisian, and Algerian cuisine. Harissa is known for its bold and complex flavors, which range from smoky to tangy to spicy.
Harissa hummus takes the traditional hummus recipe and incorporates harissa paste for an added punch of flavor. The result is a creamy and spicy dip that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Making Smoked Harissa Hummus
Making smoked harissa hummus is relatively easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons of tahini
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon of harissa paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Start by combining the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, and harissa paste in a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the hummus is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Once the hummus is smooth, season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and drizzle with a little extra olive oil and sprinkle with smoked paprika for garnish.
Health Benefits of Smoked Harissa Hummus
Not only is smoked harissa hummus delicious, but it also offers several health benefits. Chickpeas, the main ingredient in hummus, are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. They can help improve digestion, promote heart health, and support weight management.
Tahini, another key ingredient in hummus, is made from ground sesame seeds and is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It provides a creamy texture and a nutty flavor to the hummus while also offering numerous health benefits, including improved skin health, enhanced bone health, and reduced inflammation.
The addition of harissa paste adds a spicy kick to the hummus, which can help boost metabolism and promote weight loss. Spicy foods have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Can I adjust the spice level of the hummus?
Absolutely! The spice level of the hummus can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder hummus, you can reduce the amount of harissa paste or omit it altogether. On the other hand, if you like it extra spicy, feel free to add more harissa paste or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
How long does smoked harissa hummus last?
Smoked harissa hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as it may separate slightly.
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas instead of canned. Just make sure to soak and cook the chickpeas according to the package instructions before using them in the recipe.
In Conclusion
Smoked harissa hummus is a delicious and spicy twist on the classic dip. With its smoky and tangy flavors, it's sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a tasty snack. Plus, it's packed with health benefits from the chickpeas and tahini. So why not give this flavorful dip a try and spice up your hummus game?
If you want to know other articles similar to Spicy smoked harissa hummus: a fiery twist on a classic dip you can visit the Recipes category.
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