For a unique and flavorful twist on traditional hummus, this Roasted Carrot Hummus is the perfect recipe to try. The natural sweetness of roasted carrots combined with rich, smoky spices and creamy chickpeas creates a hummus that’s vibrant in color and packed with flavor. This dish makes an excellent appetizer or snack and can even be used as a sandwich spread or dip for vegetables and pita.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to spice up their hummus game with bold flavors and a unique twist. Roasting the carrots brings out their natural sweetness, while the garlic and smoked paprika add depth and warmth. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or making it for a light snack, this hummus is both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
- 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 (14-ounce) can chickpeas, undrained
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Za’atar seasoning, to taste
- Fresh parsley, to taste
Directions:
1. Prepare the Carrots:
Peel and slice the carrots into rounds or sticks, depending on your preference. Place the sliced carrots in a large mixing bowl.
2. Season the Carrots:
In a small bowl, whisk together 5 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle this seasoning mixture over the carrots, tossing them well to ensure they’re evenly coated.
3. Roast the Garlic and Carrots:
Place the seasoned carrots on a large, rimmed baking sheet in an even layer. Wrap the garlic cloves in a small piece of foil, drizzling the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them before sealing the foil. Place the foil-wrapped garlic on the baking sheet with the carrots.
Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are fork-tender and caramelized.
4. Blend the Hummus:
In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted carrots, roasted garlic (squeezed from its skin), the undrained can of chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend everything together until smooth and creamy. If needed, add a tablespoon of water or more olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve:
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with additional olive oil for richness, and sprinkle with za’atar seasoning and fresh parsley for garnish. Serve the hummus with pita chips, fresh veggies, or bread for dipping.
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Large rimmed baking sheet
- Small bowl for mixing spices
- Blender or food processor
- Knife and cutting board
Tips and Shortcuts:
- Roasting Time: Make sure to cut the carrots into even slices to ensure they roast uniformly. This will help them become perfectly tender and caramelized.
- Extra Creamy Hummus: If you prefer an even creamier hummus, add a little extra tahini or olive oil while blending.
- Pre-Roast Carrots: To save time, you can roast the carrots and garlic ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to blend the hummus.
Recipe Swaps and Variations:
- Spice It Up: For more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes while roasting the carrots.
- Lemon Substitute: If you don’t have fresh lemon juice, you can substitute with lime juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy touch.
- Chickpea Swap: If you want to try a different legume, you can substitute chickpeas with white beans or lentils for a new flavor.
How to Store Leftovers:
Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before serving again, give it a good stir and add a little olive oil to refresh the texture.
Food and Drink Pairings:
This roasted carrot hummus pairs beautifully with fresh pita bread, crunchy vegetables like cucumber and bell peppers, or even as a spread in wraps and sandwiches. For a drink pairing, try serving it with a refreshing iced tea, a glass of chilled white wine, or a sparkling water with a slice of lemon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I make this hummus without tahini?
A: Yes! If you don’t have tahini, you can omit it or replace it with a tablespoon of almond butter or peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
Q: How can I make this hummus spicier?
A: To add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or drizzle some harissa or hot sauce into the mixture before blending.
Q: Can I use pre-roasted carrots for this recipe?
A: While fresh roasted carrots offer the best flavor, you can use pre-roasted carrots to save time. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to taste.
Q: Can I freeze the hummus?
A: Yes, you can freeze hummus in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.
More Recipe Suggestions:
Easy Mediterranean Mezze Platter
Parmesan Tahini Kale Salad with Breadcrumbs and Crunchy Chickpeas
Roasted Carrot Hummus
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots
- 6 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 4 cloves garlic
- 14- ounce can chickpeas
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Za’atar seasoning to taste
- Fresh parsley to taste
Instructions
Prepare Carrots:
- Peel and slice the carrots. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
Season Carrots:
- In a small bowl, mix together 5 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the carrots and toss well to coat. Spread the carrots in an even layer on a large rimmed baking sheet.
Roast Garlic and Carrots:
- Wrap the garlic cloves in a small piece of foil with a drizzle of the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Seal the foil and place it on the baking sheet alongside the carrots.
- Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the carrots are fork-tender.
Blend Hummus:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted carrots, soft garlic (squeezed from its skin), undrained chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Serve:
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with additional olive oil, and sprinkle Za’atar seasoning and fresh parsley on top. Serve with pita chips, fresh veggies, or bread for dipping.
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