Indian Spiced Hummus: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
Discover how to make Indian spiced hummus with aromatic spices and a vibrant twist.
There’s something magical about hummus. Its creamy texture, nutty flavor, and versatility make it a favorite dip across cultures. But what happens when you infuse this Mediterranean staple with the bold, aromatic spices of India? You get Indian spiced hummus—a vibrant, flavorful twist that’s perfect for dipping, spreading, or even as a sandwich filling. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious dip, explore its unique ingredients, and share tips for serving and storing it.
Why Indian Spiced Hummus?
Traditional hummus is made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. While this combination is delicious, adding Indian spices like turmeric, garam masala, cumin seeds, and cayenne pepper transforms it into something entirely new. These spices not only add depth and complexity but also bring a warm, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, naan, or pita bread.
Indian spiced hummus is a great way to introduce bold flavors to your snack rotation. It’s also a healthy option, packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or want to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients for Indian Spiced Hummus
Here’s what you’ll need to make Indian spiced hummus:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh lemon juice, to taste
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
How to Make Indian Spiced Hummus
Making Indian spiced hummus is simple and only takes a few minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Toast the Spices
In a small, dry pan, combine the turmeric, garam masala, cumin seeds, and cayenne pepper. Toast over medium heat for about 45 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are very fragrant. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, tomato paste, toasted spices, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt. Blend while slowly adding the olive oil. If your food processor doesn’t allow for adding oil while it’s running, add it in batches, scraping down the sides of the bowl in between.
Step 3: Adjust the Consistency
Blend until the mixture is very smooth. If the hummus is too thick, add a little water or more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Once the hummus is smooth, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips for the Perfect Indian Spiced Hummus
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality spices. Toasting them before blending enhances their aroma and taste.
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder hummus, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add more cayenne or a pinch of Kashmiri red chili powder.
- Add Texture: For a chunkier hummus, pulse the ingredients instead of blending until smooth.
- Experiment with Garnishes: Try garnishing with sliced red chilies, chopped coriander, or a drizzle of olive oil for added visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Indian spiced hummus is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for serving it:
- As a dip for fresh vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, or carrots.
- Spread on naan, pita bread, or crackers.
- Use as a sandwich filling with fresh veggies and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Top a bowl of roasted vegetables or grain bowls for extra flavor.
- Pair with grilled meats or fish for a Mediterranean-Indian fusion meal.
Storing Indian Spiced Hummus
Store leftover Indian spiced hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious. If the hummus thickens in the fridge, stir in a little water or olive oil before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Indian spiced hummus without tahini?
Yes, you can make Indian spiced hummus without tahini. Simply omit it and add a little more olive oil or a splash of water to achieve the desired consistency. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! Soak and cook dried chickpeas until soft, then use them in place of canned chickpeas. This will give your hummus a fresher, more homemade taste.
How can I make Indian spiced hummus spicier?
To make the hummus spicier, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of Kashmiri red chili powder. You can also add a few chopped fresh green chilies for extra heat.
Can I freeze Indian spiced hummus?
Yes, you can freeze Indian spiced hummus for up to 3 months. Store it in an airtight container and thaw in the refrigerator before serving. Stir well before using, as the texture may change slightly after freezing.
What can I use as a substitute for garam masala?
If you don’t have garam masala, you can make a simple substitute by mixing equal parts ground cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Add a pinch of cardamom and cloves for extra flavor.
More Hummus Recipes to Try
If you love Indian spiced hummus, you might also enjoy these other creative hummus recipes:
- Sun-Dried Tomato Cilantro Hummus
- Beet and Goat Cheese Hummus
- Cayenne and Flaxseed Hummus
- Power Hummus (with roasted red peppers and walnuts)
- Date and Almond Hummus
- Black Eye Pea Hummus
Conclusion
Indian spiced hummus is a delicious, healthy, and versatile dip that brings together the best of Mediterranean and Indian flavors. With its creamy texture, bold spices, and vibrant garnishes, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it at a party, enjoying it as a snack, or using it as a sandwich spread, this recipe is easy to make and endlessly customizable. So grab your food processor, toast those spices, and get ready to enjoy a truly unique hummus experience!
References
- https://vegbuffet.com/homemade-hummus-recipe-2/
- https://www.frenchpressedkitchen.com/indian-spiced-hummus/
- https://myfancypantry.com/2012/07/28/indian-spiced-hummus/
- https://abeautifulmess.com/indian-spiced-hummus/
- https://abeautifulmess.com/hummus/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MAMZe8e9nb4
- https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/red-onion-indian-spiced-hummus
- https://abeautifulmess.nl/en/category/recipes/
