Chickpea paste

Chickpea spread with tomatoes - a simple and healthy delight

If you're looking for a quick and delicious recipe that will delight your taste buds and provide nutritional benefits, you've come to the right place! Today, I will present a recipe for tomato hummus, a flavorful and textured spread perfect for serving as an appetizer, on toast, or in various sandwiches. This recipe is simple, quick, and requires just a few basic ingredients that you can easily find in your pantry.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 800 g canned chickpeas (about 2 cans)
- 2 medium ripe and juicy tomatoes
- 1 red onion
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, as needed
- Garlic powder, to taste (optional)

A bit of history

Hummus is a traditional recipe appreciated in various cultures for its creamy texture and delicious taste. It is a versatile dish that can be adapted according to personal preferences, but this tomato version adds a fresh note that makes it even more appealing. Chickpeas, the main ingredient, are rich in protein and fiber, making them an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Step by step: How to prepare the chickpea spread with tomatoes

1. Preparing the chickpeas: Open the cans of chickpeas and drain the beans well. It is important to remove the excess liquid to achieve a more concentrated and creamy paste. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can rinse the chickpeas under cold running water to eliminate excess sodium.

2. Mashing the chickpeas: In a blender or food processor, add the drained chickpeas. Blend until it becomes a smooth paste. If you don't have a powerful blender, you can mash the chickpeas manually using a potato masher, but it will take a bit longer.

3. Adding olive oil: Start adding olive oil gradually while the blender is running. The amount of oil depends on how creamy you want the paste to be. Generally, 2-4 tablespoons should be sufficient to achieve a pleasant consistency.

4. Chopping the vegetables: While the blender is working, finely chop the tomatoes and onion. You will want to achieve small pieces, but not so small that you lose the textures in the final paste. This step is essential for adding flavor and freshness.

5. Mixing the ingredients: Add the chopped tomatoes and onion to the chickpea paste. Mix with a spatula or spoon so that the ingredients combine evenly.

6. Seasoning: Now is the time to add the seasonings! Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice. These will add a vibrant flavor to your paste. Taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preferences. You can add more lemon juice for increased acidity if you like.

7. Serving: Transfer the chickpea spread with tomatoes to a bowl and drizzle with a splash of olive oil on top. You can also sprinkle some sesame seeds or freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Useful tips and variations

- Optional additions: You can experiment with different ingredients by adding olives, roasted bell peppers, or even spices like cumin or smoked paprika to change the flavor profile of your paste.

- Serving: This paste is ideal for serving with warm pita, fresh vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers), or even on a slice of toasted bread. It can also be used as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

- Nutritional values: This recipe is rich in protein due to chickpeas and antioxidants from tomatoes. It is an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians, as it is a good source of fiber and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned chickpeas?
Yes, you can use dried chickpeas, but you will need to soak them for 8-12 hours and then boil them until soft. This will take a bit longer, but the result will be delicious!

2. How can I store the chickpea spread?
It keeps well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 3-5 days. Make sure to cover it with a splash of olive oil to prevent oxidation.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade will perfectly complement the intense flavor of the hummus. Additionally, a cold green tea can be a refreshing choice.

This tomato hummus recipe is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to bring the flavors of summer to your plate. I wish you happy cooking and joy in every bite!