Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: A Homemade Delight

Say goodbye to bland store-bought hummus and hello to a burst of flavour with this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. Roasting red peppers enhances their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth that elevates this classic dip to a whole new level. Made with simple ingredients and a few easy steps, this homemade version is not only more affordable but also fresher and more flavourful. Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a casual snack, or looking for a healthy addition to your meals, this roasted red pepper hummus will become your go-to recipe. The combination of creamy chickpeas, tangy lemon, and the robust taste of roasted red peppers makes every bite a delight.

Recipe for Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

Ingredients:

• 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 large red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Roast the Red Pepper:

   • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the red bell pepper on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and blistered. Remove from the oven and let cool. Once cooled, peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds, and chop the pepper.

2. Prepare the Hummus:

   • In a food processor, combine the roasted red pepper, chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

3. Adjust Seasoning:

   • Taste the hummus and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to suit your taste.

4. Serve:

   • Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil and garnish with additional smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs if desired.

5. Chill:

   • For best results, let the hummus chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Preparation Time:

• Roasting red pepper: 20 minutes
• Preparing hummus: 10 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Servings:

This recipe makes about 2 cups of hummus, serving approximately 6-8 people.

FAQs for Roasted Red Pepper Hummus

• Can I use a jarred red pepper instead of roasting my own? Yes, you can use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience. Just be sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in your hummus.

• How long will this hummus keep in the refrigerator? This hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

• Can I freeze Roasted Red Pepper Hummus? Yes, you can freeze hummus. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.

• What can I use Roasted Red Pepper Hummus with? This hummus is great with pita bread, vegetable sticks, crackers, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.

• Is this hummus suitable for a vegan diet? Absolutely! This Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Conclusion:

Homemade Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is a game-changer, offering a fresh, vibrant twist on the classic dip. With its rich, smoky flavor and creamy texture, it's a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Perfect for any occasion, this hummus is not only easy to make but also much tastier and healthier than store-bought options. The balance of roasted red peppers with chickpeas and tahini creates a deliciously satisfying dip that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you're snacking or entertaining, this Roasted Red Pepper Hummus is sure to become a favourite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the homemade goodness and the delightful taste of this superior dip!