Lentil Hummus

Lentil Hummus Recipe from Arabia with Coarse Salt, Sesame Seed, Garlic, Lemon Juice, Water, and Olive Oil

Region / culture: Arabia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Lentil hummus is a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic chickpea-based hummus. Made with lentils, sesame seed paste, lemon juice, and olive oil, this creamy dip is perfect for snacking or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.

History

Hummus has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, with the earliest known recipe dating back to the 13th century. Lentil hummus is a modern variation that provides a unique flavor and texture while still honoring the traditional ingredients of hummus.

Ingredients

2 tbsp coarse salt
0.5 lb (227 g) lentils, picked over (about 1.25 cup)
0.5 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
5 garlic cloves, minced and mashed to a paste with 0.25 tsp salt
0.5 cup fresh lemon juice
0.5 to 0.33 cup water
0.5 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Toasted pita wedges

How to prepare

1) In a large saucepan, bring 2 qt (1.89 liters) of water with salt to a boil. Simmer the lentils for about 15 minutes, or until they are al dente. Drain the lentils in a colander and rinse them under cold water. Make sure to drain them well. Transfer the lentils to a bowl and chill them for 20 minutes.
2) In a food processor, puree the lentils, tahini, garlic paste, lemon juice, and 0.5 cup of water until smooth. While the motor is running, gradually add the oil in a steady stream. If the mixture is too thick, you can add up to 0.25 cup of the remaining water. Season the hummus with salt and pepper.
3) The hummus can be made one day ahead and chilled. Make sure to cover its surface with plastic wrap. Before serving, bring the hummus to room temperature. Serve it with pita toasts.

Variations

Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a flavorful twist on traditional lentil hummus.
Incorporate fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or mint for a burst of freshness and color.
Experiment with different types of lentils, such as red lentils or black lentils, for a unique texture and flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the lentils well after cooking to remove any excess starch and prevent the hummus from becoming too thick.

- Adjust the amount of water in the recipe to achieve your desired consistency. Add more water for a smoother hummus or less water for a thicker dip.

- For a more intense flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the food processor.

- Experiment with different seasonings such as cumin, paprika, or fresh herbs to customize the flavor of your lentil hummus.

Serving Suggestions

Serve lentil hummus with toasted pita wedges, fresh vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, or a handful of fresh herbs for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Puree the lentils, sesame seed paste, lemon juice, and garlic in a food processor until smooth. Gradually add the olive oil while the motor is running to create a creamy and velvety hummus.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sesame seed paste on hand, you can substitute it with tahini or almond butter for a similar nutty flavor. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients and flavors.

Make Ahead Tips

Lentil hummus can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving and garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.

Presentation Ideas

Serve lentil hummus in a decorative bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, a drizzle of olive oil, or a handful of toasted sesame seeds. Arrange pita wedges, fresh vegetables, and crackers around the hummus for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair lentil hummus with a variety of dishes such as grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or falafel for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy it with a glass of crisp white wine, a refreshing beer, or a fruity iced tea for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover lentil hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the hummus in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. Serve with fresh pita wedges or vegetables for a quick and easy snack.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of lentil hummus contains around 200 calories, making it a nutritious and satisfying snack or meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of lentil hummus contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a healthy and satisfying snack or meal component.

Fats

With the addition of olive oil and sesame seed paste, lentil hummus provides a good source of healthy fats, with each serving containing around 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Lentils are a rich source of plant-based protein, and each serving of lentil hummus provides approximately 8 grams of protein to support muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Lentils are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, folate, and magnesium. These nutrients help support overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains sesame seed paste, which may be a common allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Lentil hummus is a nutrient-dense dip that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Enjoy it as a healthy snack or as part of a balanced meal.

Summary

Lentil hummus is a delicious and nutritious dip that is easy to make and versatile to enjoy. With its creamy texture, nutty flavor, and rich nutrients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for snacking, entertaining, or meal prepping. Try making lentil hummus today and savor the goodness of this wholesome and satisfying dish.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sarah in her cozy little kitchen. She had just returned from a trip to the Middle East and was eager to share all the delicious dishes she had learned to make.

As I sat at her kitchen table, sipping on a cup of fragrant mint tea, Sarah began to pull out all the ingredients for her lentil hummus. I watched with fascination as she cooked the lentils until they were soft and creamy, then blended them together with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of cumin.

The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When Sarah finally placed a bowl of the creamy hummus in front of me, I took a generous scoop and spread it on a piece of warm pita bread.

The flavors exploded in my mouth - the earthy lentils, the nutty tahini, the zingy lemon juice, and the warm cumin all came together in perfect harmony. I had never tasted anything like it before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Sarah laughed as she watched me devour the hummus, and she promised to teach me her recipe. Over the next few weeks, I visited her kitchen regularly, taking notes and asking questions as she patiently guided me through each step.

I learned that lentil hummus was a popular dish in the Middle East, where it was often served as a side dish or a snack with fresh vegetables and bread. It was a healthier alternative to traditional chickpea hummus, as lentils were packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

As I practiced making the lentil hummus on my own, I began to experiment with different variations. I added roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor, chopped fresh herbs for a burst of freshness, and a drizzle of olive oil for richness.

Each batch I made was slightly different, but they were all delicious in their own way. I shared my creations with friends and family, who marveled at the unique twist I had put on this classic dish.

Over the years, I continued to perfect my lentil hummus recipe, tweaking and adjusting it until it was just right. It became a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I could whip up in a matter of minutes and serve with pride to anyone who came to visit.

As I grew older, I began to pass down my recipe for lentil hummus to my children and grandchildren. I taught them the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients and taking the time to savor each bite.

Now, whenever I make lentil hummus, I am reminded of that warm summer day in Sarah's kitchen, where I first fell in love with this humble yet delicious dish. It is a recipe that has brought me joy and satisfaction throughout the years, and I am grateful for the memories and friendships it has created along the way.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a healthy and flavorful snack, look no further than my lentil hummus recipe. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you too can experience the magic of this Middle Eastern delight. Enjoy!