Spicy Tomato Hummus with Basil
This recipe for spicy tomato hummus with basil is an intriguing twist on the traditional dip, bringing vibrant flavors and a touch of heat to the table. The blend of sun-dried and fresh cherry tomatoes, paired with fragrant basil and nutty sesame seeds, creates a tantalizing taste sensation. Chickpeas provide a creamy base, while the addition of chili and a hint of honey offer a delightful balance between spice and sweetness. This hummus is perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a nutritious snack. It's not only easy to make but also a great way to impress friends and family with its complex and aromatic profile. Whether you enjoy it with salty tomato and basil-flavored wafers or pair it with fresh veggies, this hummus is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Moreover, if certain ingredients do not suit your taste, there are plenty of options for customization. Dive into this flavorful adventure, and elevate your dip-making skills with this vibrant recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 400 g canned chickpeas
- 50 ml olive oil
- 2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 5 sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- 5 fresh cherry tomatoes
- 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp finely chopped parsley
- 3 tbsp chopped basil
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tsp honey (to taste)
- 20 salty wafers with tomato and basil flavor
Spices:
- Small piece of chili
- Pinch of ground cumin
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Prepare the Sesame Paste: In a skillet over low heat, toast the sesame seeds until they're lightly golden. Transfer them to a blender, adding the garlic clove and a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Blend until smooth to form a paste.
- Blend the Chickpeas: In the blender, place the canned chickpeas, adding ½ of the liquid from the can. This will ensure your hummus is creamy.
- Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Add the sesame paste, sun-dried and cherry tomatoes, finely chopped parsley, and basil to the blender.
- Spice It Up: Throw in the piece of chili and squeeze in the juice from one lemon.
- Season: Add a pinch of salt and cumin for an extra layer of flavor.
- Blend the Mixture: Process everything until smooth and well combined. Taste the hummus, adjusting seasoning with more salt or honey if desired.
- Garnish and Serve: Spoon the hummus into a small dish. For an extra touch, decorate with a few whole chickpeas on top.
- Final Touch: Drizzle with the remaining olive oil or, for those who love heat, chili oil.
- Pair With Wafers: This blend goes perfectly with “Selga” salty wafers with tomato and basil flavor.
- Optional Adjustments: If you’re not fond of parsley, chili, or cumin, feel free to omit them, and you can substitute cooked chickpeas if preferred.
- Perfect Every Time: Achieving the right consistency is key, so adjust with chickpea liquid or olive oil as needed.
- Enjoy Immediately: Serve this delicious dip fresh for the best taste experience.
- Storage Suggestion: If any leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Serve Mindfully: Bring it to room temperature before serving for a full-flavored experience.
- Experiment with Heat: Adjust the chili level to suit your or your guests' spice tolerance.
- Maximize Freshness: Use fresh ingredients where possible to enhance the flavor profile.
- Consistency is Key: If the hummus is too thick, gradually incorporate more chickpea liquid or olive oil during blending.
- Explore Texture: For a chunkier hummus, blend for less time, retaining some texture.
- Personalize Your Dish: Feel free to garnish creatively with additional herbs or seeds.
- Presentation Matters: Serve in a beautiful bowl to make the dish stand out.
Tips
- If you prefer a smoother hummus, peel the chickpeas before blending.
- Use a high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Incorporate roasted garlic for a sweeter, more mellow taste.
- Adjust the amount of chili to your desired spice level.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
- Protein: 5g
- Fats: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
Variations
- Vegan: The recipe is naturally vegan, but ensure wafers are dairy-free.
- Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free crackers or veggie sticks instead of wafers.
- Nut-Free: Substitute sesame seeds with sunflower seeds if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
- Serve as a spread in sandwiches or wraps for a flavorful twist.
- Enjoy with pita chips for a Middle Eastern vibe.
Best Places
- [Hummus Bar] - A must-visit for hummus lovers, offering various flavors and toppings. Location: 14 King David St, Jerusalem, Israel.
- [Zahav] - Known for its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, including their acclaimed hummus. Location: 237 St James Pl, Philadelphia, USA.
- [The Hummus & Pita Co.] - Offers a delightful range of hummus varieties. Location: 585 6th Ave, New York, USA.
- [Abu Hassan] - Renowned for its creamy and rich hummus, a local favorite. Location: Ha-Dolfin St 1, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.
- [Miznon] - Combines the freshness of Mediterranean flavors with creative dishes. Location: 37 Quai de Valmy, Paris, France.
- [Ottolenghi] - Offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including unique hummus variations. Location: 287 Upper St, London, UK.
- [Hummus Lina] - Famed for its rich and flavorful hummus, served in a vibrant setting. Location: 42 Al Hijaz St, Amman, Jordan.
- [Tahini] - Celebrated for its inventive hummus and friendly atmosphere. Location: Rua Senador Dantas, 84 - Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- [Sabra] - Offers authentic flavors and a variety of hummus options in a casual setting. Location: 56 McMurray St, Brisbane, Australia.
- [Maher] - Known for its traditional recipes and bustling energy. Location: Detroit, Michigan, USA.