Zesty Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus: A Flavor Fiesta for Your Taste Buds
Hummus, the creamy and versatile dip made from chickpeas, is a staple in many cultures. While traditional hummus is delicious, it’s fun to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. This Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus recipe takes the classic dip to a whole new level, adding a vibrant and spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds. The fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note, while the jalapeño provides a delightful heat that’s perfectly balanced by the creamy chickpeas and tahini. This hummus is incredibly easy to make and is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even as a spread on sandwiches and wraps.
Why You’ll Love This Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus
* **Flavor Explosion:** The combination of cilantro and jalapeño creates a symphony of flavors that is both refreshing and exciting.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal effort and only a handful of ingredients. Simply toss everything into a food processor and blend until smooth.
* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Hummus is a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. This version is packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the cilantro and jalapeño.
* **Versatile:** Enjoy it with pita bread, vegetables, crackers, or use it as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. The possibilities are endless!
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** This hummus is sure to be a hit at parties and gatherings. Its unique flavor profile will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Chickpeas:** The base of our hummus. You can use canned chickpeas for convenience, but make sure to rinse and drain them well. For an even smoother hummus, remove the skins of the chickpeas. This can be a little time-consuming, but it makes a significant difference in the texture.
* **Tahini:** A paste made from sesame seeds. Tahini adds a nutty flavor and creamy texture to the hummus. Look for tahini that is made from 100% sesame seeds and has a smooth, pourable consistency. Well-stirred tahini is crucial for the right consistency. Sometimes the oil separates, so a thorough mixing is necessary.
* **Lemon Juice:** Adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the other ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best.
* **Garlic:** Provides a pungent and aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic cloves are preferable to pre-minced garlic for the best flavor. Start with one clove and add more to taste.
* **Cilantro:** The star of this recipe! Cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor. Use fresh cilantro, and be sure to wash it thoroughly before using it.
* **Jalapeño:** Adds a spicy kick. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat. If you like it extra spicy, leave some or all of the seeds in. Start with half a jalapeño and add more to taste.
* **Olive Oil:** Adds richness and helps to create a smooth, creamy texture. Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
* **Cumin:** Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
* **Salt:** Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
* **Ice Water:** This is the secret ingredient to achieving an ultra-smooth and creamy hummus. Adding a few tablespoons of ice water while blending helps to lighten the texture and create a light and airy dip.
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Food Processor:** A food processor is essential for making hummus. It will blend the ingredients into a smooth and creamy consistency. A high-powered blender can also work, but a food processor is generally preferred.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurately measuring the ingredients.
* **Can Opener:** If using canned chickpeas.
* **Cutting Board and Knife:** For chopping the cilantro and jalapeño.
* **Rubber Spatula:** For scraping down the sides of the food processor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your own delicious Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus:
**Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas**
If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. For extra smooth hummus, pinch the chickpeas between your fingers to remove the outer skins. This step is optional but highly recommended. Discard the skins.
**Step 2: Prepare the Cilantro and Jalapeño**
Wash the cilantro thoroughly and chop it roughly. Remove the stems if you prefer, although the stems are perfectly edible. Cut the jalapeño in half lengthwise. Remove the seeds and membranes if you want a milder hummus. If you like it spicy, leave some or all of the seeds in. Chop the jalapeño into small pieces.
**Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Food Processor**
In the bowl of a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cilantro, jalapeño, olive oil, cumin, and salt. Pulse a few times to roughly combine the ingredients.
**Step 4: Blend Until Smooth**
Turn the food processor on and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This may take a few minutes. Stop the food processor occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. If the hummus is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of ice water at a time while blending until you reach your desired consistency. The ice water helps to create a lighter and airier texture.
**Step 5: Taste and Adjust**
Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more lemon juice for brightness, more jalapeño for heat, or more salt to enhance the flavors. Blend again to incorporate the adjustments.
**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of paprika or a few chopped cilantro leaves for garnish (optional). Serve with pita bread, vegetables, crackers, or use as a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus
* **Use high-quality ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of your hummus. Use fresh cilantro, good-quality tahini, and extra virgin olive oil.
* **Don’t skip the ice water:** Adding ice water while blending is the key to achieving an ultra-smooth and creamy hummus. It helps to lighten the texture and create a light and airy dip.
* **Adjust the spice level to your liking:** The amount of jalapeño you use will determine the spiciness of the hummus. Start with half a jalapeño and add more to taste. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat.
* **Remove the chickpea skins:** Removing the skins of the chickpeas will result in a smoother hummus. This step is optional but highly recommended.
* **Store the hummus properly:** Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* **Warm chickpeas for extra creaminess:** Gently heating the chickpeas before blending can also contribute to a smoother texture.
* **Toast sesame seeds for tahini:** If you’re feeling ambitious and want to make your own tahini, toasting the sesame seeds before grinding them will enhance the nutty flavor.
* **Be patient when blending:** It takes time to achieve a truly smooth hummus. Don’t rush the blending process. Stop and scrape down the sides of the food processor as needed.
* **Get creative with toppings:** While the hummus is delicious on its own, you can add toppings to elevate the presentation and flavor. Some suggestions include: drizzled olive oil, chopped cilantro, paprika, toasted sesame seeds, pine nuts, chopped tomatoes, or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Variations
* **Roasted Jalapeño Hummus:** Roast the jalapeño in the oven or over an open flame until the skin is blackened. This will give the hummus a smoky flavor.
* **Avocado Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus:** Add half an avocado to the food processor for an extra creamy and healthy hummus.
* **Black Bean Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus:** Substitute half of the chickpeas with black beans for a different flavor and texture.
* **Roasted Red Pepper Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus:** Add a roasted red pepper to the food processor for a sweet and smoky flavor.
* **Spicy Mango Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus:** Add some chopped fresh mango for a sweet and spicy twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways:
* **Dip:** Serve with pita bread, vegetables (carrots, celery, cucumber, bell peppers), crackers, or tortilla chips.
* **Spread:** Use as a spread on sandwiches, wraps, or toast. It’s delicious on a veggie burger or grilled chicken sandwich.
* **Appetizer:** Serve as part of a mezze platter with other Mediterranean dips, olives, and cheeses.
* **Salad Dressing:** Thin the hummus with a little water or lemon juice to make a creamy salad dressing.
* **Baked Potato Topping:** Top a baked potato with hummus instead of sour cream or butter.
* **Pasta Sauce:** Toss with cooked pasta for a quick and easy meal.
Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)
* Calories: 150-200
* Protein: 5-7 grams
* Fat: 10-12 grams
* Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
* Fiber: 3-5 grams
*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
Recipe Card
**Yields:** Approximately 2 cups
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 0 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
* 1/4 cup tahini
* 1/4 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
* 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
* 1/2-1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (adjust to taste)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 2-4 tablespoons ice water
* Optional garnishes: olive oil, paprika, chopped cilantro
**Instructions:**
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas. For smoother hummus, remove the skins.
2. Wash and chop the cilantro. Seed and mince the jalapeño (adjust amount for desired spiciness).
3. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cilantro, jalapeño, olive oil, cumin, and salt.
4. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
5. Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with paprika or chopped cilantro, if desired.
8. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Enjoy this flavorful and healthy Cilantro Jalapeño Hummus! It’s a fantastic way to add a little zest to your day and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. This vibrant dip is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.