Beet hummus has completely transformed my appetizer game, and I’m so excited to share it with you! I remember the first time I tried this vibrant, earthy dip; it was a revelation. The stunning crimson color alone was enough to capture my attention, but the flavor? Absolutely divine. It’s a beautiful blend of sweet roasted beets and that classic creamy hummus texture we all love. Learning how to make beet hummus was surprisingly simple, and it’s become my go-to for potlucks and even just a healthy afternoon snack. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this gorgeous, delicious dip – let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Beet Hummus
Get ready to fall in love with this gorgeous dip! Here’s why this beet hummus is a winner:
- Incredible Flavor: The roasted beets lend a unique earthy sweetness that’s both comforting and exciting.
- Quick Prep: While roasting takes time, the active prep is minimal, making it an easy weeknight option.
- Nutrient-Packed: This is a truly healthy beet hummus, loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the beets and chickpeas.
- Budget-Friendly: Using pantry staples like chickpeas and a simple beet keeps this dip affordable.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike are drawn to its vibrant color and mild, sweet taste.
- Naturally Vegan: It fits perfectly into a plant-based lifestyle, making it a crowd-pleasing vegan beet hummus.
- Versatile: It’s perfect for dipping, spreading, or dolloping onto almost anything.
Ingredients for Beet Hummus
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this stunning roasted beet hummus. You’ll need a few key players that come together for that signature earthy sweetness and vibrant color. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 small-medium beet (about 5 oz / 140g), roasted – Roasting is key for the best flavor and texture in this beet dip recipe.
- 1 (15-oz / 425g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed – These are the base of our hummus, providing creaminess.
- 1/4 tsp baking soda – This little secret makes the chickpeas extra soft for a super smooth hummus.
- Heaping 1/3 cup (90g) tahini – Tahini adds that essential nutty depth and richness.
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced (~3 tbsp juice) – Fresh lemon brightens everything up beautifully.
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped – For that classic hummus kick!
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin – Adds a warm, earthy note.
- 1/4 tsp ground coriander – Complements the cumin with a subtle citrusy flavor.
- 1 heaping tsp kosher salt, or to taste – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste – For a touch of spice.
- 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional) – Adds a little extra silkiness to the blend.
How to Make Beet Hummus
Ready to create your own vibrant masterpiece? Making this beet hummus is a straightforward process that yields incredible results. Follow these steps and you’ll have a gorgeous, flavorful dip in no time. It’s truly an easy beet hummus recipe that anyone can master!
- Step 1: Let’s start by preheating your oven to 425°F (218°C). Take your beet, give it a little rub with some olive oil, and place it in a covered dish with about half a cup of water. Roast it for 45 to 60 minutes, or until it’s tender enough to pierce easily with a fork. Once it’s cooled enough to handle, peel off the skin and chop it into manageable pieces.
- Step 2: While the beet is roasting, let’s get those chickpeas ready for ultimate smoothness. Drain and rinse your can of chickpeas, then simmer them in water with the 1/4 tsp baking soda for about 20 minutes. This step is my secret for achieving that super-soft texture, which is crucial for a truly creamy beet hummus. After simmering, drain and rinse them again.
- Step 3: Now it’s time to get blending! Place the still-warm, drained chickpeas into your food processor. Process them for a good 1–2 minutes. You want them to become smooth and fluffy – don’t be afraid to let the processor run for a bit.
- Step 4: Add the chopped roasted beet to the food processor with the chickpeas. Toss in the tahini, lemon zest and juice, chopped garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and the optional olive oil.
- Step 5: Blend everything together until it’s wonderfully creamy and smooth. If your hummus seems a little too thick, don’t worry! Just add a tablespoon of ice water and blend again until it reaches a silky consistency. This makes it even more spreadable and delightful.
- Step 6: Spoon your beautiful beet hummus into a shallow bowl. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with za’atar and chopped parsley if you’re using them, and serve immediately with your favorite pita chips, bread, crackers, or fresh veggies.
Roasting the Beet
Roasting your beet is non-negotiable for the best flavor and texture. It caramelizes the natural sugars, giving the beetroot hummus a lovely sweetness and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality that boiling just can’t replicate. For more on the benefits of roasting vegetables, check out this guide on roasting vegetables.
Preparing the Chickpeas
That little bit of baking soda in the simmering water is a game-changer for hummus. It helps break down the chickpeas, making them incredibly soft and yielding, which is the key to achieving that ultra-smooth, velvety texture in your hummus made with beets.
Blending for Creaminess
Don’t skimp on the blending time! Processing the ingredients thoroughly, especially after adding the tahini and lemon, is what transforms simple ingredients into a luxuriously smooth dip. Let your food processor work its magic until you have a consistently creamy texture.
Pro Tips for the Best Beet Hummus
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make my beet hummus absolutely perfect every single time. Follow these tips, and you’ll be whipping up the most vibrant and delicious dip!
- Always use fresh beets for the best earthy flavor.
- Don’t skip simmering the chickpeas with baking soda – it makes a huge difference in smoothness.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving; a little extra salt or lemon can elevate everything.
- For a deeper beet flavor, you can roast the beet with a clove of garlic.
What’s the secret to perfect beet hummus?
The magic happens with perfectly roasted beets and well-simmered chickpeas. Roasting sweetens the beet, and the baking soda step ensures your creamy beet hummus has an incredibly smooth texture that’s irresistible.
Can I make beet hummus ahead of time?
Absolutely! This beetroot hummus is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight.
How do I avoid common mistakes with beet hummus?
A common pitfall is a bland flavor. Ensure you season generously with salt and lemon juice. Also, don’t over-process; stop when it’s smooth but not watery. If it is too thick, add ice water a tablespoon at a time.
Best Ways to Serve Beet Hummus
This vibrant beet hummus is incredibly versatile and makes any dish more exciting. It’s not just a dip; it’s a flavor enhancer! My favorite way to enjoy it is as a classic appetizer. Serve it in a shallow bowl with a generous drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of za’atar, and fresh parsley. Pair it with warm pita bread, crunchy pita chips, or an assortment of fresh, crisp vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips. It’s also fantastic as a spread on sandwiches or wraps for a healthy lunch.
Looking for more ideas for your beetroot dip recipe? Try dolloping it onto a grain bowl, spreading it on toast for a fancy breakfast, or even using it as a base for a colorful salad dressing.
Nutrition Facts for Beet Hummus
This vibrant beet hummus is not only beautiful but also packed with goodness. Enjoying a serving of this healthy dip is a smart choice for your well-being. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving (about 2-3 tablespoons):
- Calories: 150-180
- Fat: 8-10g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Protein: 4-6g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Fiber: 3-5g
- Sugar: 4-6g (mostly natural from beets)
- Sodium: 200-300mg
Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and amounts used in your preparation.
How to Store and Reheat Beet Hummus
Properly storing your vibrant beetroot hummus ensures it stays fresh and delicious for your next snack or meal. Once your homemade hummus has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. I find that glass containers with tight-fitting lids work best for preserving the flavor and preventing any leaks. Stored this way in the refrigerator, your beautiful beet hummus will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it even longer, this dip freezes beautifully for up to 3 months! Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
When you’re ready to reheat, if it’s been refrigerated, it usually doesn’t need warming, but if you prefer it slightly warmer, a quick 15-30 second zap in the microwave should do the trick. For frozen hummus, thawing in the fridge is the safest method. Sometimes, after thawing, the hummus might separate a bit – don’t worry! Just give it a good stir, or a quick blitz in the food processor with a tablespoon of water, and it will be as silky and smooth as when you first made it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beet Hummus
What is beet hummus?
Beet hummus is a vibrant, visually stunning variation of the classic chickpea dip. It incorporates pureed roasted beets, which give it a beautiful crimson or pink hue and a subtle earthy sweetness that complements the traditional flavors of tahini, lemon, and garlic. It’s a fantastic way to add color and nutrients to your snacking or appetizer spread.
Can I use canned beets instead of roasting fresh ones for homemade beet hummus?
While you can technically use canned beets, I strongly recommend roasting fresh beets for the best flavor and texture in your homemade beet hummus. Canned beets can sometimes have a metallic taste and a softer texture that isn’t ideal. Roasting caramelizes the natural sugars in the beet, enhancing its sweetness and creating a richer, more complex flavor profile that truly elevates the dip. For more on the benefits of fresh ingredients, see this article on fresh ingredients.
Why is my beet hummus bland?
A bland flavor in beet hummus often comes down to seasoning. Make sure you’re using enough salt and fresh lemon juice to brighten the earthy beet flavor. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust! Also, ensure your tahini is fresh and good quality, as it contributes significantly to the overall richness and depth of flavor. Adding a pinch of cumin or coriander can also boost the taste.
What are the health benefits of beet hummus?
This healthy beet hummus is a nutritional powerhouse! Beets are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, known for supporting heart health and digestion. Combined with chickpeas, which provide plant-based protein and fiber, this dip is both satisfying and beneficial. It’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful appetizer while getting a good dose of nutrients.
Variations of Beet Hummus You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, you’ll want to explore all the delicious ways to customize your beet hummus! These variations add exciting new dimensions to this already fantastic dip. Whether you’re looking for a bit more kick or a different flavor profile, there’s a version for everyone.
- Spicy Beet Hummus: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small chopped jalapeño (seeds removed for less spice) to the food processor along with the other ingredients. This creates a wonderfully zesty kick that pairs perfectly with the sweet beet.
- Garlic Beet Hummus: If you’re a big garlic fan, don’t hold back! You can double the garlic cloves, or even roast an extra head of garlic alongside your beet and add a few cloves to the blend for an intense, savory flavor.
- Roasted Red Pepper Beet Hummus: Blend in about 1/4 cup of jarred roasted red peppers along with the beets and chickpeas. This adds another layer of sweetness and a slightly smoky note, creating a gorgeously complex flavor.
- Tahini-Free Beet Hummus: If you’re avoiding tahini or just want to try something different, you can substitute it with a creamy base like sunflower seed butter or even a bit of silken tofu for a lighter texture.
Beet Hummus: Amazing Flavor!
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vibrant and Creamy Beet Hummus is a bold, colorful twist on classic hummus. Roasted beetroot adds earthy sweetness and a stunning pink hue, blending perfectly with tahini, lemon, and garlic for a smooth, velvety dip. Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with nutrients, it’s perfect for parties, meal prep, or healthy snacking.
Ingredients
- 1 small-medium beet (about 5 oz / 140g), roasted
- 1 (15-oz / 425g) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 tsp baking soda (for simmering chickpeas)
- Heaping 1/3 cup (90g) tahini
- 1 large lemon, zested and juiced (~3 tbsp juice)
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp ground coriander
- 1 heaping tsp kosher salt, or to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (optional)
- For serving: Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- 1 tbsp za’atar, optional
- Chopped parsley
- Pita chips, bread, crackers, or crudités
Instructions
- Roast the beet: Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Rub beet with oil, place in a covered dish with 1/2 cup water, and roast 45–60 minutes until fork-tender. Peel and chop once cooled.
- Prepare chickpeas: Simmer rinsed chickpeas with 1/4 tsp baking soda in water for 20 minutes until very soft. Drain and rinse.
- Blend chickpeas: Process warm chickpeas for 1–2 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
- Blend hummus: Add roasted beet, tahini, lemon zest and juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and optional olive oil. Blend until creamy.
- Adjust texture: Add 1 tbsp ice water if too thick; blend again until silky.
- Serve: Spoon into a shallow bowl, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with za’atar and parsley, and serve with pita or veggies.
Notes
- Roasting the beet gives better flavor and texture than boiling.
- Simmering chickpeas with baking soda makes hummus extra smooth.
- Don’t rush blending—let the food processor run for 2–3 minutes.
- Wear gloves when peeling beets to avoid stains.
- Store in fridge up to 5 days or freeze up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasted and Blended
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 tbsp