Pumpkin Hummus
Embrace the cozy vibes of autumn with a bowl of Pumpkin Hummus that will wrap you in warmth and nostalgia. This dreamy dip is a delightful twist on the traditional chickpea hummus, infused with the comforting flavors of pumpkin, spices, and a hint of smokiness. Imagine dipping crispy pita chips into a smooth, velvety mixture, where each bite bursts with the essence of fall. It’s simple to create, making it a perfect choice for gatherings, snack times, or a nutritious addition to your meal prep. Pumpkin Hummus is not just a dish; it’s an experience worth savoring!
Are Your Taste Buds Ready for a Fall Treat?
Have you ever craved something creamy, savory, and just a little sweet that captures the essence of the autumn season? What if I told you that this indulgent Pumpkin Hummus can satisfy your longing for comfort food while being a healthy option? Pair it with crispy pita chips at your next gathering, enjoy it as a snack with your kids, or simply relish it alone while wrapped in a cozy blanket. But the real question is: can you resist the lure of this vibrant dish that dances on your palate and warms your soul?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pumpkin Hummus isn’t just another dip; it’s a game-changer. Here are the top reasons why this easy-to-make recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen:
-
Quick & Easy Prep: You can whip up this Pumpkin Hummus in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days or unexpected guests.
-
Healthier Option: Packed with nutritious ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy.
-
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for a potluck, holiday gathering, or a casual get-together, it’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
-
Minimal Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples, this hummus is both economical and convenient to make.
Ingredients
To create this luscious Pumpkin Hummus, you will need the following ingredients:
-
1 cup pumpkin puree: This will be the star of your dish, providing a smooth texture and a sweet, earthy flavor.
-
1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed: Chickpeas bring protein and creaminess to the hummus, balancing the sweetness of the pumpkin.
-
1/2 cup tahini: An essential ingredient for making traditional hummus, tahini adds nutty richness.
-
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: For a touch of acidity, apple cider vinegar brightens the flavors.
-
2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil: Rich and smooth, this ingredient helps in achieving the needed silky consistency.
-
1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce: This adds a delightful kick and smokiness that elevates the dish.
-
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish: The warm spice of cinnamon enhances the autumnal flavor.
-
1/2 tsp. paprika, plus more for garnish: This adds a pop of color and a subtle hint of sweetness.
-
Kosher salt: To taste, ensuring all flavors are perfectly balanced.
-
1 tsp. toasted sesame seeds, for garnish: These make for a beautiful finish and add a delightful crunch.
-
Pita chips, for serving: The perfect vehicle for scooping up this creamy dip and turning it into an irresistible snack.
Timing
When it comes to making your Pumpkin Hummus, speed and indulgence go hand in hand. In just a flash—approximately 10 minutes—you can blend these delightful ingredients into a glossy, silky dip. This quick method is perfect for spontaneous cravings or last-minute entertaining. However, if you’re looking to create a more luxurious experience, let your hummus sit for an hour in the fridge to allow the flavors to develop further. The choice is yours: fast and indulgent or slow and luxurious—I recommend trying both!
Step-by-Step
Creating your Pumpkin Hummus is as easy as pie! Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to get you there:
-
Blend It Up: In a large food processor, combine the pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, chipotle pepper, ground cinnamon, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt.
-
Process Until Smooth: Blend all the ingredients until they transform into a smooth, velvety mixture that practically glides in the processor.
-
Season to Taste: Take a moment to taste your hummus, adding more salt or spices as necessary to achieve that perfect balance of flavors.
-
Transfer & Garnish: Spoon your vibrant mixture into a bowl, then add a beautiful garnish of sesame seeds, a sprinkle of paprika, and a dash of cinnamon. This will not only enhance the flavor but also create a visually tempting presentation.
-
Serve & Enjoy: Pair your hummus with crispy pita chips, fresh veggies, or even your favorite crackers, and watch as it disappears in an instant!
Nutritional Information
This Pumpkin Hummus is not only delicious but also quite nutritious! In a serving (about 1/4 cup), you can expect:
- Calories: Approximately 100 calories
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
While it’s indulgent, remember that moderation is key. This treat satisfies your cravings while providing plenty of nutrients—perfect for guilt-free snacking!
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to make this Pumpkin Hummus even lighter, here are a few healthier alternatives:
-
Low-Sugar Substitutes: Use maple syrup or agave nectar sparingly if you crave additional sweetness without refined sugars.
-
Dairy-Free & Vegan Options: Simply ensure all packaged ingredients, like tahini, are dairy-free. This hummus is naturally vegan, making it a great option for various dietary needs.
-
Add More Veggies: Throw in some roasted garlic or spinach for added nutrition without compromising flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Pumpkin Hummus can shine in various settings! Here are some crave-worthy suggestions for enjoying it:
-
As a Snack: Pair it with fresh veggie sticks like carrots or celery for a wholesome afternoon snack.
-
At a Party: Serve with a platter of pita chips and an assortment of crackers, perfect for impressing your guests.
-
During Holidays: As a festive dip for Thanksgiving or Halloween gatherings, it adds a splash of color and flavor to your table.
-
With Spicy Food: The cooling effect of this hummus can beautifully balance spicy dishes, making it a perfect sidekick for your favorite spicy dishes.
Common Mistakes
When whipping up this recipe, it’s good to be aware of potential pitfalls:
-
Over-blending: While you want it creamy, over-blending can lead it to turn gummy. Blend until smooth, but check the texture frequently.
-
Wrong Texture: If your hummus is too thick, add a little water or more olive oil to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
-
Underseasoning: Always taste and tweak with salt and spices. A sprinkle of salt can do wonders for flavor enhancement.
-
Messy Prep: To prevent chickpeas from splattering, ensure the food processor lid is secure during blending.
Storing Tips
Want to enjoy your Pumpkin Hummus longer? Here are some helpful storing tips:
-
Refrigeration: Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to a week.
-
Freezing Portions: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or ice cube trays. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
-
Reheating: If you prefer your hummus warm, gently heat it in the microwave in short bursts, adding olive oil or water as necessary for creaminess.
Tempted to Make It ASAP?
This Pumpkin Hummus is a must-try! It’s not merely a dip; it’s an embodiment of comfort and joy, perfect for every occasion. The blend of creamy pumpkin and spices creates a rich flavor that whispers ‘cozy fall evenings,’ while its healthy properties affirm that indulgence doesn’t need to come with guilt. So, why wait? Get those ingredients ready, dust off the food processor, and surprise yourself with a bowl full of happiness.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just ensure you roast and puree the pumpkin until smooth before using it in the recipe.
2. Is it necessary to add the chipotle pepper?
While it does enhance the flavor, you can easily omit it. Try adding smoked paprika for a milder flavor profile.
3. How do I make it spicier?
Add more chipotle peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
4. Can I add other spices?
Certainly! Experimenting with flavors like garlic powder or cayenne can add more depth and interest.
5. Can kids enjoy this hummus?
Yes! It’s a nutritious snack that kids will love, especially when paired with their favorite dipping options!
Print
Pumpkin Hummus
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional hummus, infused with pumpkin and spices, making it a perfect fall dip.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon, plus more for garnish
- 1/2 tsp. paprika, plus more for garnish
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 1 tsp. toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
- Pita chips, for serving
Instructions
- In a large food processor, combine the pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, chipotle pepper, ground cinnamon, paprika, and a generous pinch of salt.
- Blend all the ingredients until they transform into a smooth, velvety mixture.
- Taste your hummus, adding more salt or spices as necessary.
- Spoon your mixture into a bowl and garnish with sesame seeds, paprika, and cinnamon.
- Serve with pita chips or fresh veggies.
Notes
For best flavor, allow the hummus to sit for an hour in the fridge before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
