Indian-style Hummus

Indian-style Hummus Recipe: A Flavorful Vegetarian Delight

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Indian-style hummus is a flavorful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dip, incorporating traditional Indian spices and flavors. This recipe combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and cilantro, creating a unique and delicious dish that is perfect for dipping or spreading.

History

Hummus has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Egypt. The addition of Indian spices and flavors to hummus is a more recent innovation, blending the traditional flavors of the Middle East with the vibrant and aromatic spices of India.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chickpeas (substitute with canned black or kidney beans if you prefer)
2 cloves of garlic, minced
0.5 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 hot chili of your choice (optional, or add more!), minced
0.5 tsp ground coriander
0.5 tsp ground cumin
3 tbsp fresh minced cilantro
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

In a small sauté pan, sauté the garlic, ginger, chile, ground coriander, and cumin with a little water until the garlic is soft.
Add the sautéed mixture to the chickpeas and mash them thoroughly.
Mix in cilantro leaves, salt, and pepper.
Serve the dish cold or at room temperature as a dip.

Variations

Experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique flavor profile for Indian-style hummus. Try adding turmeric, garam masala, or curry powder for a different twist.

Notes

Chopped cucumber, boiled cubed potatoes, minced scallions, and/or grated carrot are all nice additions

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect texture for your Indian-style hummus, be sure to thoroughly mash the chickpeas to create a smooth and creamy consistency. Adjust the amount of spices and chili to suit your personal taste preferences, adding more or less as desired. For a more intense flavor, roast the garlic and spices before adding them to the chickpeas.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Indian-style hummus with warm naan bread, pita chips, or fresh vegetables for dipping. It also makes a delicious spread for sandwiches or wraps.

Cooking Techniques

For a smoother texture, use a food processor or blender to puree the chickpeas and spices together. Alternatively, use a mortar and pestle to mash the ingredients by hand for a more rustic texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have kidney beans on hand, you can use chickpeas or black beans as a substitute. Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, ginger, and chili to suit your taste preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

Indian-style hummus can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish your Indian-style hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and a few fresh cilantro leaves for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Indian-style hummus with a refreshing cucumber salad, spicy curry dishes, or grilled meats for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Indian-style hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish for a few seconds or serve it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 150 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Indian-style hummus is a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains legumes (chickpeas) and may not be suitable for individuals with legume allergies.

Summary

Indian-style hummus is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is high in protein and fiber, making it a healthy option for snacking or as part of a meal.

Summary

Indian-style hummus is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of India with the creamy texture of chickpeas. With a few simple ingredients and spices, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dip that is perfect for snacking or as part of a meal. Enjoy this unique twist on a classic dish!

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Indian-style hummus. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Priya, who had recently moved to America from India. As we sat in her kitchen chatting, she offered me a taste of her homemade hummus. It was unlike any hummus I had ever tried before – creamy, spicy, and bursting with flavor. I asked her for the recipe, and she graciously agreed to teach me how to make it.

Priya began by explaining that traditional hummus is made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. However, she had put her own unique twist on the recipe by incorporating Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. She also added a generous amount of fresh cilantro and mint to give the hummus a bright, herbaceous flavor.

We started by draining and rinsing a can of chickpeas, then adding them to a food processor along with a generous spoonful of tahini. Priya instructed me to add a clove of garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil. She then handed me a small bowl filled with a blend of cumin, coriander, turmeric, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

As I sprinkled the spices into the food processor, the vibrant colors and aromas filled the air. I could already tell that this hummus was going to be something special. Priya encouraged me to taste as I went along, adjusting the seasoning to my liking. I added a handful of fresh cilantro and mint leaves, then pulsed the mixture until it was smooth and creamy.

Once the hummus was ready, Priya showed me how to plate it in a shallow dish, drizzling it with a little extra olive oil and sprinkling it with a pinch of paprika for color. She also taught me a trick to make the hummus extra creamy – adding a splash of cold water and blending it again until it reached the perfect consistency.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, Priya explained that in India, hummus is not a traditional dish. However, she had been inspired to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create a fusion of her Indian heritage and her newfound love for Mediterranean cuisine. I was so grateful to her for sharing this recipe with me, and I knew that it would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Indian-style hummus countless times, each batch slightly different depending on the spices and herbs I have on hand. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all been delighted by its unique and bold flavors. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that always brings back memories of that sunny day in Priya’s kitchen.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the people and experiences that have shaped my culinary adventures. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to share stories and traditions, and to create something beautiful out of simple ingredients. And in that spirit, I pass on this recipe for Indian-style hummus to you, hoping that it will bring you as much joy and inspiration as it has brought me. Bon appétit!