| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 380 | 18g | 3g | 45g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 7g | 9g | 13g | 0.70g |
One particular recipe that has continuously topped my list of favorites is the fruity and vibrant Epazote and Chickpea Hummus. Bringing together the beautiful blend of tangy and sweet flavors with the richness of chickpeas and a hint of the herbaceous epazote – it’s like a flavor party happening right there in your mouth! Hailing from Louisiana with a French lineage, I’ve always had a penchant for both bold and refined flavors, and this recipe clearly reflects the same.
It’s All About the Ingredients
The Epazote and Chickpea Hummus, has ingredients that not only pack a punch of flavor but also come with significant health benefits. Chickpeas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein. Tahini, a sesame seed paste, and olive oil both contribute healthy fats and a complexity of flavor to the recipe. The addition of fresh fruit provides a refreshing burst of natural sweetness and an array of vitamins and minerals that brighten the dish and make it all the more nourishing.
The uniqueness of this recipe lies in the use of dried epazote leaves. This medicinal herb, renowned for its potent punch, lends a robust aroma and flavor to the dish while also providing digestive benefits. Pair this hummus with whole-grain pita bread or crisp, fresh veggies for a healthy snack or light lunch.
A Versatile Pairing Partner
Beyond being a fantastically nourishing standalone dish, the Epazote and Chickpea Hummus pairs beautifully with a variety of other recipes. It holds its own against the robust flavors of Mexican-inspired dishes, such as grilled chicken tacos, and it can also serve as a flavorful accompaniment to grilled veggies.
A chilled glass of Gewürztraminer or a light, crisp Chardonnay brings out the flavors in this hummus – the sweetness of the wine playing off the tartness of the fruit and the earthiness of the chickpeas and tahini. Trust me when I say, it’s a flavor matching made in heaven!
Simply put, the Epazote and Chickpea Hummus embodies my love for creating extraordinary flavors from ordinary ingredients. It represents the essence of my approach to food – blending the bold with the elegant, the simple with the sophisticated – and, above all, sharing the joy of food that nourishes both the body and soul.
What You’ll Need
- 3 cans (15 ounces each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 tablespoons tahini
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Freshly squeezed juice from 1 large lemon
- 1 dried, chopped epazote leaf, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 3/4 cup water, plus more as needed
- 2 cups chopped mixed fresh fruit (such as apples, pears, or berries) for garnish
Method
Step One
Place the chickpeas into a large bowl. Pour 4 tablespoons of olive oil over the chickpeas and toss to fully coat.
Step Two
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas and olive oil, 6 tablespoons of tahini, minced garlic clove, the juice of one large lemon, one chopped epazote leaf, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Step Three
Process the mixture until it’s smooth and well combined. Then, while the food processor is still running, gradually add the 3/4 cup of water until the hummus reaches your desired consistency. You may need to add more water if you prefer a thinner hummus.
Step Four
Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or epazote if needed.
Step Five
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Garnish the top with the chopped mixed fresh fruit.
Step Six
Enjoy the epazote and chickpea hummus as a dip for bread or crackers, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
