Hummus Trio Recipe

Hummus Trio: An Explosion of Flavor and Color

In a world where culinary diversity delights our senses, hummus takes center stage, offering not only a delicious taste but also a vibrant palette of colors. This Hummus Trio recipe brings together three savory variations, each with its unique personality. Perfect for festive meals, fasting, or simply for a healthy snack, this hummus is sure to win you over.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes (including boiling the vegetables)
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

For the basic hummus:
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (hybridized from 1/3 cup dried chickpeas)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)
- 2 peeled garlic cloves
- salt to taste

For the olive variation:
- 100 g pitted green olives

For the carrot variation:
- 1 medium carrot, boiled and peeled
- a pinch of turmeric (for a touch of color and flavor)

For the beet variation:
- 1 small boiled and peeled red beet
- tabasco to taste (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the chickpeas: Start by soaking the chickpeas a day in advance. They will become softer, and the hummus will have a creamy texture. If using canned chickpeas, rinse them well under cold water.

2. Preparing the basic hummus: In a blender, add the cooked chickpeas, olive oil, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic cloves. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste. Adjust the consistency with water if needed, and season with salt to taste.

3. Dividing the mixture: Divide the hummus into three separate bowls, each containing about one-third of the total amount.

4. Olive hummus: In the first bowl, add the green olives and blend again until you achieve a uniform paste. The salty flavor of the olives will transform the hummus into a delicacy.

5. Carrot hummus: In the second bowl, add the boiled carrot and a pinch of turmeric. Process until the mixture becomes creamy, and the turmeric will give it a golden hue and a subtle aroma.

6. Beet hummus: In the last bowl, add the boiled red beet and, if desired, a drop of tabasco for a slight spicy taste. Blend until you achieve a fine texture and a vibrant color.

7. Assembling the dish: Now that you have prepared the three types of hummus, mix them well in separate bowls before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the hummus trio on crispy bruschetta, with fresh focaccia, or warm flatbreads. Drizzle a little olive oil on top and sprinkle some sage leaves for an elegant touch. This dish can be a centerpiece at any festive meal and is sure to impress your guests.

Nutritional Benefits

Hummus is a protein- and fiber-rich food, providing an excellent source of nutrients. Chickpeas are known for their properties that aid digestion and maintain cardiovascular health. Olive oil adds healthy fats, and tahini is a good source of calcium and essential minerals. Additionally, carrots and beets are rich in antioxidants, making them very beneficial for health.

Tips and Variations

- You can experiment with different spices, such as curry, cumin, or sweet paprika, to add various flavors.
- Instead of beets, you can use cooked spinach for a green version of the hummus.
- If you prefer a spicier taste, add more tabasco or even a few slices of hot pepper.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I store hummus?
Hummus keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-5 days. It is recommended to cover it with a layer of olive oil to prevent oxidation.

2. Can I use canned chickpeas?
Of course! Canned chickpeas are a quick and convenient option. Make sure to rinse them well before use to remove excess sodium.

3. How can I make the hummus creamier?
If your hummus is too thick, add a little water or olive oil, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition.

4. What other vegetables can I use?
Besides beets and carrots, you can experiment with roasted zucchini or roasted peppers to achieve different flavors.

With this simple and delicious Hummus Trio recipe, I invite you to enjoy a culinary experience full of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal!