Roasted carrot hummus shows off a beautiful earthy color. But it really shines in flavor with it’s natural sweetness of roasted carrots and creamy richness of the chickpeas and tahini. This dip, with its warm and comforting notes making it perfect for autumn gatherings and its vibrant color and fresh taste making it a refreshing choice for springtime picnics.
Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or party dip, roasted carrot hummus is a crowd-pleasing dish that adds a burst of flavor to any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the ingredients
- Carrots: Carrots are the star ingredient in this hummus variation. They are peeled, sliced, and roasted to bring out their natural sweetness and add a rich, earthy flavor to the hummus.
- Chickpeas: Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a staple in traditional hummus recipes. They provide a creamy texture and a nutty flavor. Chickpeas are a good source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber.
- Garlic: Garlic adds a pungent and savory flavor to the hummus. It can be adjusted to your preference, but it’s an essential element for the traditional hummus taste.
- Tahini: Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds and is a key ingredient in hummus. It contributes to the creamy texture and provides a rich, nutty flavor. Tahini is high in healthy fats and is a source of calcium.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds acidity and brightness to the hummus. It balances the flavors and provides a tangy contrast.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for roasting the carrots and can also be added to the hummus for richness and a subtle fruity flavor.
- Spices: Ground cumin, ground coriander (optional), and paprika are common spices used in roasted carrot hummus. They enhance the overall flavor profile, adding warmth and depth.
- Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the hummus to taste. You can adjust these seasonings to your preference.
- Water: Water is used to adjust the consistency of the hummus. It helps make the hummus smooth and creamy.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley can be used for garnish, adding a touch of color and freshness to the dish. It’s optional but enhances the presentation.
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and nutritious roasted carrot hummus that’s both delicious and versatile. You can customize the recipe by adjusting the quantities to suit your taste preferences, making it as creamy, garlicky, or spicy as you like.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can absolutely make roasted carrot hummus ahead of time. In fact, making it in advance can be quite convenient, as it allows the flavors to meld and develop even more. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare and Roast the Carrots: Follow the recipe to prepare and roast the carrots. Once they are roasted and cooled to room temperature, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day or two.
- Prepare the Hummus Base: You can also prepare the hummus base (blended chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, spices, etc.) in advance. Blend all the ingredients until smooth and creamy, and store the base in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover the surface of the hummus with a thin layer of olive oil to prevent it from drying out. The hummus base can be refrigerated for up to 2-3 days.
- Combine Before Serving: When you’re ready to serve the hummus, simply take the roasted carrots and the hummus base out of the refrigerator. Allow the ingredients to come to room temperature for about 15-30 minutes.
- Blend and Adjust: Place the roasted carrots and the hummus base in a food processor and blend them together until well combined and smooth. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a bit of water or more olive oil to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, lemon juice, or spices if necessary.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite accompaniments.
Making roasted carrot hummus in advance can save you time when you’re ready to serve it, and the flavors will have had time to meld, resulting in a delicious and well-rounded dip.
More Delicious Hummus Recipes
Roasted Carrot Hummus
Ingredients
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 1 15 oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus extra for roasting
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- salt and pepper, to taste
- water, as needed for consistency
- fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the carrot rounds with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.Spread the carrots out on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Allow them to cool slightly.
- In a food processor, combine the roasted carrots, drained chickpeas, minced garlic, tahini, fresh lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Start blending the ingredients in the food processor. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a bit of water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired hummus consistency. Continue blending until the hummus is smooth and creamy.
- Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more lemon juice, salt, or spices to suit your taste.
- Transfer the roasted carrot hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve the hummus with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or as a dip for your favorite snacks. It also makes a great spread for sandwiches and wraps.