Hummus is a delightful, versatile dish that has found its way into many a kitchen and onto many a menu worldwide. A traditional Middle Eastern staple made primarily from chickpeas and tahini, hummus is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. While the classic version is a tried-and-true favorite, hummus also serves as a canvas for a multitude of flavor variations. One such twist is Cilantro Lime Hummus, a variant that marries the creamy texture of hummus with the fresh, zesty flavors of cilantro and lime.
Cilantro Lime Hummus: A Fresh Take
Cilantro Lime Hummus takes the classic hummus recipe and infuses it with the bright, herbaceous notes of cilantro and the tangy zest of lime. The result is a vibrant and refreshing dip, spread, or snack that brings a burst of flavor to your palate.
Recipe: Cilantro Lime Hummus
Here's a simple recipe to help you make your own Cilantro Lime Hummus at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 ounces) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- 2 to 3 tablespoons water
- 1 cup cilantro leaves and stems, loosely packed
Instructions:
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Blend the tahini and lime juice: In a food processor, combine the tahini and lime juice and process for 1 minute. This extra time helps 'whip' or 'cream' the tahini, making the hummus smooth and creamy.
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Add additional ingredients: Add the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and a 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the whipped tahini and lime juice. Process for 30 seconds, scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl then process another 30 seconds.
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Blend in the chickpeas: Add half of the chickpeas to the food processor and process for 1 minute. Then, add the remaining chickpeas and process for 1 to 2 minutes, or until thick and quite smooth.
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Add water: Most likely the hummus will be too thick or still have tiny bits of chickpea. To fix this, with the food processor turned on, slowly add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water until you reach the perfect consistency.
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Blend in the cilantro: Add the cilantro to the hummus and process until it's fully incorporated and the hummus is smooth.
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Serve: Transfer the hummus to a bowl, drizzle with additional olive oil, and garnish with a few cilantro leaves. Serve with your favorite chips or veggie sticks, or use as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
This Cilantro Lime Hummus is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Its vibrant flavor and creamy texture make it a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether used as a spread, a dip, or a standalone dish, this Cilantro Lime Hummus is sure to bring a refreshing zing to your table.
Alert: While spices can have many beneficial properties for health, using them for medical purposes should be done under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional or specialist. Some spices may interact with medications or cause adverse reactions in certain individuals, and it is important to use them safely and appropriately. If you are considering using spices for a medical condition, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before doing so.
