In the heart of a bustling kitchen, amidst the clinking of cutlery and the warm embrace of shared laughter, there lies the potential for a culinary creation that is both unassuming and extraordinary. White Bean Hummus is such a dish—a smooth, creamy spread that offers a twist on the traditional chickpea-based classic. It’s a recipe that speaks to the soul’s desire for both comfort and discovery, blending the familiar with the novel.
The choice to craft White Bean Hummus comes from a yearning to explore the versatility of legumes, to celebrate their understated elegance, and to offer a tribute to the humble white bean’s buttery texture. This hummus is more than a dip; it’s a bridge between cultures, a fusion of Middle Eastern flavors with the hearty substance of Western fare.
There’s a certain joy in watching the transformation of simple ingredients—cannellini beans, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic—into a harmonious blend that is as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether it’s for a quiet evening at home or as the centerpiece of a lively gathering, White Bean Hummus is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the endless possibilities that arise when we dare to reimagine the classics. Join me as we delve into this recipe, a celebration of flavor and texture that promises to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.
White Bean Hummus Recipe
White Bean Hummus is a creamy, versatile spread that offers a delightful alternative to traditional chickpea hummus. It’s made from cannellini beans or other white beans, which provide a smooth texture and a slightly nutty flavor. The beans are blended with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, creating a rich and satisfying taste experience.
This dish is celebrated for its health benefits, as it’s high in protein and fiber while also providing healthy fats and essential nutrients. White Bean Hummus can be enjoyed in a variety of ways: as a dip for vegetables and crackers, spread on sandwiches or wraps, or even as a base for other recipes.
The simplicity of the ingredients allows for customization, inviting the addition of herbs, spices, or other flavorings to suit personal preferences. It’s a perfect option for those seeking a nutritious snack or a flavorful addition to meals.
White Bean Hummus
Equipment
- 1 food processor
Ingredients
- 1 can organic cannellini beans, drained & rinsed
- 1-2 cloves of garlic
- ¼ cup roasted tahini
- Zest and juice of one organic lemon
- ½ tsp. sea salt
- freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2-4 tablespoons water if needed
- Pinch or two of marash chili flakes or red pepper flakes optional
- **either 1 rounded teaspoon of the “first fish Friday” dried herb blend from Spice Station in Silverlake OR approximately ¼ cup of fresh mixed herbs of choice chopped (i.e. basil, mint, dill, parsley, cilantro, chives etc.)
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the beans, garlic, tahini, lemon zest and juice, salt, pepper and pulse to combine.
- With the motor running, stream in the olive oil, scraping down the sides a couple of times. Add in water 1T at a time to desired consistency.
- Add in chili flakes, if using, along with the dried or fresh, chopped herbs to the hummus, pulse a few times until combined. Taste and adjust to your taste for additional herbs, salt and pepper; and, if you’d like, thin it out with a few tablespoons of water or more lemon juice.
- Sprinkle additional herbs and chili flakes on top for garnish.
Video
Cooking Tips
Creating White Bean Hummus is a delightful culinary endeavor that brings both comfort and creativity to the kitchen. I find joy in the simplicity of blending the white beans to a creamy perfection, their mild flavor providing a perfect backdrop for the zesty lemon and aromatic garlic. It’s essential to add the olive oil gradually, watching as it emulsifies and enriches the hummus with a silky texture. A personal touch I adore is adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika, which whispers hints of warmth and depth to the palate. This hummus is more than a dish; it’s a canvas for expression, inviting each cook to imprint their own flavor preferences and create a spread that’s uniquely theirs.
Serving suggestion
Serving White Bean Hummus is an act of sharing a culinary treasure, one that’s as versatile as it is delightful. I take joy in spreading a generous layer on a warm, toasted pita, inviting the senses to revel in its creamy texture. Garnishing with a sprinkle of paprika and a drizzle of olive oil adds a touch of elegance, while a handful of kalamata olives or sun-dried tomatoes can provide a contrasting burst of flavor. This hummus is more than a dip; it’s a bridge between simplicity and sophistication, a dish that encourages communal dining and the pleasure of conversation. Each scoop is a reminder of the beauty found in sharing food made with intention and the warmth that comes from enjoying flavors that nourish both body and soul.
Top 5 FAQs about White Bean Hummus
- What are the health benefits of White Bean Hummus? This question is often asked by those looking to incorporate healthier snack options into their diet. White Bean Hummus is rich in protein and fiber due to the white beans, and it also contains healthy fats from ingredients like tahini and olive oil.
- Can I use different types of beans for this hummus recipe? Variety is key for many home cooks who like to experiment with flavors or who may have different ingredients available. This question allows for an explanation of how various beans might alter the flavor and texture of the hummus.
- How can I achieve the smoothest texture for my White Bean Hummus? Texture is a significant aspect of a good hummus. Responding to this query involves providing tips on blending techniques, the importance of cooking the beans until they’re very tender, and the role of adding ice water during blending to achieve a creamy consistency.
- What are some creative ways to serve White Bean Hummus? Serving suggestions can inspire people to use hummus in various ways, beyond just a dip. Ideas might include using it as a spread in sandwiches, as a base for a salad dressing, or incorporating it into other dishes for added creaminess and flavor.
- How should I store leftover White Bean Hummus and how long will it keep? Storage information is crucial for maintaining freshness and preventing food waste. Tips on refrigeration, the use of airtight containers, and the expected shelf life of the hummus when stored properly would be valuable to users.
In conclusion, White Bean Hummus is a culinary delight that stands out for its smooth texture, versatility, and the wholesome goodness it brings to the table. It’s a dish that embodies the spirit of innovation in the kitchen, taking a beloved classic and infusing it with a new dimension of flavor through the use of white beans. This hummus serves not only as a nutritious snack or appetizer but also as a testament to the power of simple ingredients to create something truly special.