Pumpkin hummus is a delightful twist on the traditional chickpea dip, perfect for autumn gatherings or as a nutritious snack. Combining the smooth, earthy flavor of pumpkin with the rich, nutty taste of chickpeas, this hummus is both delicious and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a hummus enthusiast or looking to try something new, this pumpkin hummus will surely become a favorite. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and can be served with a variety of dippers like fresh veggies, pita bread, or crackers.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Hummus
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Water, as needed
- Garnishes (optional): drizzle of olive oil, sprinkle of paprika, toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh parsley
How to Make Pumpkin Hummus
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by draining and rinsing the chickpeas. This helps to remove any excess sodium and makes the hummus smoother.
- Blend the Base:
- In a food processor, combine the canned pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Blend until the mixture starts to come together.
- Add Spices:
- Add the ground cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and black pepper to the food processor. Blend again until smooth.
- Adjust the Consistency:
- If the hummus is too thick, gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Blend well after each addition to ensure the hummus is smooth and creamy.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your taste.
- Serve:
- Transfer the pumpkin hummus to a serving bowl. If desired, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, toasted pumpkin seeds, and fresh parsley.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the pumpkin hummus with your choice of dippers such as fresh vegetables, pita bread, crackers, or use it as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
About the Main Ingredients
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is the star ingredient in this hummus, providing a rich and creamy texture as well as a subtle sweetness. Pumpkins are a type of winter squash and are highly nutritious, packed with vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. The addition of pumpkin not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of the hummus.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a staple in traditional hummus. They are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron, phosphorus, and folate. Chickpeas contribute to the creamy texture of the hummus and provide a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin.
Tahini
Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds and is a key ingredient in hummus. It adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy consistency. Tahini is also a good source of healthy fats, protein, and several vitamins and minerals, including calcium and magnesium.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used in hummus to add smoothness and enhance the overall flavor. It is a healthy fat that is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidants. Using high-quality olive oil can make a noticeable difference in the taste of your hummus.
Spices
The blend of spices in pumpkin hummus includes cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. These spices not only complement the pumpkin’s flavor but also add warmth and depth to the hummus. Cumin is commonly used in traditional hummus for its earthy flavor, while cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice give a hint of autumnal spice that makes this hummus unique.
Garlic
Garlic adds a pungent, savory flavor to the hummus. It is also known for its health benefits, including its antibacterial properties and potential to boost the immune system.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the tahini and olive oil. It also helps to enhance the other flavors in the hummus and provides a touch of acidity.
Garnishes
Optional garnishes like a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, toasted pumpkin seeds, and fresh parsley add visual appeal and additional layers of flavor and texture to the pumpkin hummus.
Pumpkin hummus is a delightful variation of traditional hummus, perfect for autumn and beyond. It’s easy to make, healthy, and delicious, making it a great addition to any meal or snack. Enjoy it as a dip, spread, or as part of a larger dish, and savor the unique flavors of this seasonal twist on a classic favorite.
