FOR GRILLED DISHES
Hot sauce and some greens contribute color and luster to this hummus mixture. We prefer it pooled under bright peppers, zucchini, and halved plum tomatoes cooked on the grill.
Spicy Hummus Sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a punch of taste to a variety of dishes. Combining the creamy richness of hummus with a spicy kick, this sauce is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals. Here’s what you need to know about this delectable sauce:
The base of this sauce is hummus, which is made from blended chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, and garlic. These ingredients offer a creamy texture and a subtle nutty undertone. However, what sets the Spicy Hummus Sauce apart is the addition of spicy elements like red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or harissa. These ingredients infuse the sauce with a fiery kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
The beauty of this sauce lies in its customizability. Depending on your preference for spiciness, you can adjust the amount of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to achieve your desired level of heat. Whether you’re a fan of milder warmth or crave a tongue-tingling experience, this sauce can be tailored to suit your taste buds.
The Spicy Hummus Sauce has a wide range of uses. It can be drizzled over grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, falafel, sandwiches, wraps, or even used as a dip for fresh crudites or pita bread. Its creamy texture and spicy kick make it a fantastic condiment to liven up otherwise ordinary dishes. The sauce’s bold flavor can instantly transform simple ingredients into a mouthwatering delight.
Creating this sauce is a breeze. Start with a base of prepared hummus, whether store-bought or homemade. Then, gradually add in the spicy components like red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or harissa. Blend until the ingredients are well combined and the desired level of spiciness is achieved. Taste along the way to ensure the balance is just right for you.
Once prepared, you can store the Spicy Hummus Sauce in the refrigerator for several days. When you’re ready to serve, give it a quick stir to recombine any separated elements. The sauce can be served cold or at room temperature, depending on your preference and the dish you’re pairing it with.
Whether you’re looking to add a kick to your grilled vegetables, enhance your sandwiches, or bring a fiery element to your snacks, the Spicy Hummus Sauce is a go-to option. Its combination of creamy hummus and spicy accents makes it a condiment that tantalizes the taste buds and brings excitement to your meals.
MAKES: ABOUT 2 CUPS
INGREDIENTS:
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- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, peeled and roasted in a dry skillet until soft
- 14- to 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- Grated zest of 1 lemon plus 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh mint or a combination of mint and parsley or dill
- 1 tablespoon tahini (sesame butter)
- 1 tablespoon red chile-based hot sauce or harissa
- Kosher salt or coarse sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS:
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- Puree the Garlic and Olive Oil: In a food processor, puree the olive oil and roasted garlic cloves until smooth.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: To the garlic and olive oil mixture, add the chickpeas, grated lemon zest and juice, minced fresh mint (or a combination of herbs), tahini, and red chile-based hot sauce (or harissa).
- Blend and Season: Puree the mixture until well combined and smooth. Taste and season with kosher salt or coarse sea salt according to your preference.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too thick to easily spoon, you can add a tablespoon or more of water until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve the Roasted Garlic and Chickpea Sauce immediately with grilled vegetables. It pairs well with a variety of grilled veggies.
- Storage: Refrigerate any remaining sauce in a covered container for up to 5 days. Before serving again, allow the sauce to come back to room temperature. You may need to adjust the consistency with a bit more water after refrigeration.
