Name: Carrot Hummus: The Ultimate Guide to Making & Enjoying It
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 3 cups
Ingredients: 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped; 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1/4 cup tahini; 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon salt, or more to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or more to taste; 2-4 tablespoons water, to thin; Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, extra smoked paprika, a drizzle of olive oil, toasted sesame seeds

Carrot Hummus: Prepare to experience a flavor explosion that will redefine your snacking game! Forget everything you thought you knew about traditional hummus because this vibrant twist is about to become your new obsession. Imagine the creamy, earthy goodness of classic hummus elevated with the subtle sweetness and bright color of roasted carrots. It's a culinary adventure in every bite!

While the exact origins of hummus are debated, its roots are deeply embedded in Middle Eastern cuisine, with variations enjoyed for centuries. This Carrot Hummus recipe takes that time-honored tradition and infuses it with a modern, healthy twist. The addition of carrots not only enhances the flavor profile but also boosts the nutritional value, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

People adore hummus for its versatility, creamy texture, and satisfying flavor. It's the perfect dip for vegetables, pita bread, or crackers, and it can even be used as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. This particular version takes all those beloved qualities and amplifies them. The roasted carrots add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory notes of the tahini and chickpeas, creating a harmonious blend that's both comforting and exciting. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this vibrant and delicious Carrot Hummus!

Ingredients:

1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup tahini
1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or more to taste
2-4 tablespoons water, to thin
Optional garnishes: chopped fresh parsley, extra smoked paprika, a drizzle of olive oil, toasted sesame seeds

Roasting the Carrots:

Roasting the carrots brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that really elevates this hummus. Trust me, it's worth the extra step!

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting those nice, caramelized edges on the carrots.
Prepare the carrots. Peel the carrots and chop them into roughly 1-inch pieces. Uniform size is important so they cook evenly. If some pieces are much larger than others, they'll take longer to cook, and you might end up with some that are undercooked while others are overcooked.
Season the carrots. In a large bowl, toss the chopped carrots with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure the carrots are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This will help them roast properly and develop that delicious flavor.
Roast the carrots. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Don't overcrowd the pan, or the carrots will steam instead of roast. If necessary, use two baking sheets. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and slightly caramelized. Keep an eye on them, and flip them halfway through to ensure even browning. You want them to be easily pierced with a fork.
Cool slightly. Let the roasted carrots cool slightly before adding them to the food processor. This will prevent the heat from affecting the other ingredients and ensure a smoother hummus.

Making the Carrot Hummus:

Now for the fun part – blending everything together to create that creamy, dreamy hummus!

Combine ingredients in a food processor. In the bowl of a food processor, combine the roasted carrots, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Process until smooth. Process the mixture until it is very smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. This may take a few minutes, so be patient. You want to achieve a really creamy consistency.
Adjust the consistency. With the food processor running, slowly add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired consistency. I usually add 2-4 tablespoons of water. Some people prefer a thicker hummus, while others like it thinner. It's all about personal preference!
Taste and adjust seasonings. Taste the hummus and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or cumin, depending on your preference. Don't be afraid to experiment!
Process again. Process the hummus for another minute or two after adjusting the seasonings to ensure everything is well combined.

Serving and Storing:

The final touches are what really make this hummus special. And knowing how to store it properly ensures you can enjoy it for days to come!

Transfer to a serving bowl. Transfer the carrot hummus to a serving bowl.
Garnish (optional). Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, extra smoked paprika, and/or toasted sesame seeds. Get creative with your garnishes! A sprinkle of za'atar is also delicious.
Serve. Serve immediately with pita bread, vegetables, crackers, or anything else you like to dip. It's also great as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
Store. Store leftover carrot hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will actually meld together and improve over time!

Tips for the Best Carrot Hummus:

Use fresh ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and good-quality tahini will make a big difference in the flavor of your hummus.
Don't skip the roasting step. Roasting the carrots is essential for bringing out their sweetness and creating a more flavorful hummus.
Use good quality tahini. Tahini can vary greatly in quality. Look for tahini that is smooth and creamy, with a slightly nutty flavor. Avoid tahini that is bitter or grainy.
Process for a long time. Processing the hummus for a longer time will result in a smoother, creamier texture.
Adjust the seasonings to your taste. Don't be afraid to experiment with the seasonings to find the perfect balance of flavors for your palate.
Add ice cubes for extra creaminess. For an extra creamy hummus, try adding a few ice cubes to the food processor while blending. The cold water helps to emulsify the ingredients and create a smoother texture.
Remove the chickpea skins (optional). For an even smoother hummus, you can remove the skins from the chickpeas before blending. This is a bit time-consuming, but it can make a noticeable difference in the texture. Simply rub the chickpeas between your fingers to loosen the skins, then rinse them away with water.
Make it spicy. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small piece of jalapeño to the food processor.
Add other vegetables. Feel free to experiment with adding other roasted vegetables to your hummus, such as red peppers, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash.

Serving Suggestions:

With pita bread and vegetables: This is the classic way to serve hummus. Warm pita bread and a variety of fresh vegetables, such as cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, and celery, make a healthy and satisfying snack or light meal.
As a spread on sandwiches and wraps: Hummus is a great alternative to mayonnaise or other spreads on sandwiches and wraps. It adds flavor, moisture, and nutrients.
As a dip for crackers and chips: Hummus is a delicious and healthy dip for crackers, chips, and pretzels.
As a topping for salads: A dollop of hummus can add flavor and creaminess to salads.
With falafel: Hummus is a classic accompaniment to falafel.
As part of a mezze platter: Hummus is a staple of Middle Eastern mezze platters, which typically include a variety of small dishes, such as olives, feta cheese, stuffed grape leaves, and baba ghanoush.

Variations:

Spicy Carrot Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small piece of jalapeño to the food processor for a spicy kick.
Roasted Red Pepper and Carrot Hummus: Add a roasted red pepper to the food processor along with the carrots for a smoky and sweet flavor.
Sweet Potato and Carrot Hummus: Substitute half of the carrots with roasted sweet potato for a sweeter and earthier flavor.
Butternut Squash and Carrot Hummus: Substitute half of the carrots with roasted butternut squash for a nutty and slightly sweet flavor.
Beet and Carrot Hummus: Add a roasted beet to the food processor for a vibrant pink hummus with a slightly earthy flavor.

Conclusion:

This Carrot Hummus isn't just another dip; it's a vibrant, flavorful experience that will revolutionize your snacking game. The sweetness of the carrots perfectly complements the earthy tahini and zesty lemon, creating a harmonious blend that's both healthy and incredibly satisfying. Trust me, once you try this, you'll be reaching for it again and again! But why is this recipe a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it's incredibly versatile and easy to make. We're talking minimal ingredients and a quick whiz in the food processor – perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Plus, it's a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies, making it a winner for both kids and adults alike. The bright orange color also adds a beautiful pop to any platter, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. Now, let's talk serving suggestions! Of course, you can always enjoy it the classic way with pita bread, but don't stop there. This Carrot Hummus is amazing with sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, celery sticks, or even crunchy broccoli florets. For a heartier snack, try spreading it on whole-wheat crackers or toasted baguette slices. But the fun doesn't end there! Feel free to experiment with variations to make it your own. Want a little extra kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Craving a smoky flavor? Roast the carrots before blending them into the hummus. For a sweeter twist, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. You can also play around with different herbs and spices, such as cumin, coriander, or smoked paprika. The possibilities are endless! Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Serving Suggestions:

Crudités Platter: Arrange Carrot Hummus in a bowl surrounded by colorful vegetables like carrots, celery, bell peppers, and cucumbers.
Hummus and Veggie Wraps: Spread the hummus on a whole-wheat tortilla and fill it with your favorite veggies for a quick and healthy lunch.
Hummus Toast: Toast a slice of whole-grain bread and top it with Carrot Hummus, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.
Hummus Pasta Salad: Toss cooked pasta with Carrot Hummus, chopped vegetables, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a light and refreshing salad.
Hummus Stuffed Chicken: Spread Carrot Hummus under the skin of chicken breasts before baking for added flavor and moisture.

I truly believe that this Carrot Hummus will become a staple in your kitchen. It's a simple, healthy, and delicious way to add flavor and nutrients to your diet. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of this amazing dip. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. I can't wait to see what you create! Happy dipping! I am confident that you will love this homemade Carrot Hummus.