This Roasted Carrot Hummus is a vibrant twist on the classic Middle Eastern dip, combining the natural sweetness of caramelized carrots with traditional chickpeas and tahini.
It’s not only delicious but also packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a nourishing snack or appetizer.
The carrots add beta-carotene and antioxidants, while chickpeas provide sustained energy through complex carbs and protein.
Tahini contributes heart-healthy fats, keeping this dip low in saturated fat but rich in flavor and creaminess.
Quick to prepare whether you use an air fryer or oven, this recipe is perfect for everyday meals, easy meal prep, or when you want a wholesome, satisfying snack that supports a balanced diet.
Its smooth texture and warm, earthy spices make it appealing for all ages and dietary preferences.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Air Fryer
Perfect for roasting carrots quickly and evenly with minimal oil, the air fryer ensures tender, caramelized veggies with a crisp edge. Beyond this recipe, it’s a versatile appliance for healthier, speedy cooking.
Food Processor
Essential for blending chickpeas, roasted carrots, and seasonings into a creamy, smooth hummus. It’s a kitchen powerhouse for sauces, dips, and even doughs.
Vegetable Peeler
Quickly and safely removes carrot skins for a smoother texture. A quality peeler saves prep time and works wonders on many fruits and veggies.
Mortar and Pestle
Ideal for crushing garlic and salt, releasing intense flavors. This tool adds authentic texture and aroma to many homemade sauces and dressings.
Lemon Squeezer
Extracts fresh juice effortlessly, ensuring bright acidity that balances the dip. It’s a handy tool for enhancing flavor in any recipe requiring fresh citrus.
Tasty Roasted Carrot Hummus with Pita Chips
Equipment
- 1 Vegetable Peeler
- 1 Sharp Knife
- 1 Chopping Board
- 1 Food Processor or Blender
- 1 Air Fryer or Oven
- 1 Mortar and Pestle (optional)
- 1 Measuring spoons (set)
- 1 Lemon Squeezer (1)
Ingredients
- 225 grams carrots peeled and cut into batons
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 400 grams canned chickpeas drained, reserve liquid
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1½ teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots: Begin by peeling the carrots to remove their outer skin for a smooth texture. Cut them into evenly sized sticks to ensure uniform cooking. This helps achieve a consistent roast, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Roast the Carrots: Air Fryer Method: Toss the carrot sticks in 1 teaspoon of olive oil until lightly coated. Arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Roast at 180°C (375°F) for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the oiled carrot sticks on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Prepare the Garlic: While the carrots roast, finely crush the garlic clove together with a pinch of salt using a mortar and pestle. If you don’t have these, mince the garlic very finely or use a garlic press to release its full aroma.
- Blend the Hummus Base: In a food processor or blender, combine the drained chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, ground cumin, crushed garlic, and salt. Add a small amount of the reserved chickpea liquid to start blending, adjusting the consistency as you go.
- Incorporate the Roasted Carrots: Once the carrots are tender and roasted, add them to the food processor. Blend everything until roughly combined, then add more chickpea liquid, one tablespoon at a time, blending to reach a creamy, smooth consistency.
- Final Taste and Texture Check: Pause to taste your hummus. Adjust seasoning by adding more salt, lemon juice, or cumin as preferred. Continue blending until silky smooth and perfectly balanced.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little olive oil and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top if desired. Serve with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or crackers.
Notes
- Roasting Options: Using an air fryer significantly reduces cooking time and uses less oil, but the oven method yields beautifully caramelized carrots if you prefer.
- Garlic Prep: Crushing garlic with salt in a mortar and pestle releases deeper flavors than mincing, but either method works well.
- Adjusting Consistency: Chickpea liquid is your secret for perfect hummus texture. Add gradually to avoid it becoming too runny.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This hummus stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Variations: For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or roast the garlic alongside the carrots.
Chef’s Secrets for Flavorful Hummus
Achieving the perfect roasted carrot hummus lies in the quality of your ingredients and a few simple techniques.
Start with fresh carrots and roast them until they’re soft but not mushy, allowing natural sugars to develop without burning.
Using freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dip and balances the richness of tahini, while toasting your cumin lightly before adding can add a deeper, smoky aroma if you want to experiment.
Don’t skip crushing the garlic with salt in a mortar and pestle; this method softens the garlic’s harshness and releases aromatic oils that blend beautifully into the hummus.
Lastly, controlling the texture by gradually adding reserved chickpea liquid ensures a creamy, luscious consistency tailored to your preference.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Guests
Roasted carrot hummus shines as a versatile appetizer or snack.
Serve it drizzled with a little extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with fresh parsley for an inviting presentation.
Pair it with warm pita bread, crunchy vegetable sticks like celery, cucumber, or bell peppers, or your favorite crackers for a colorful and nutritious platter.
It also makes a fantastic spread for sandwiches or wraps, adding a subtly sweet, creamy layer to your meal.
For an elevated touch, try topping with toasted pine nuts, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or a few roasted chickpeas for texture.
This hummus fits perfectly into Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, or even casual party menus.
Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor
Store your hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
It will keep well for up to 4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or quick snacks throughout the week.
Before serving leftovers, allow the hummus to come to room temperature for the best flavor and creaminess.
If it thickens too much after refrigeration, simply stir in a small amount of water, lemon juice, or olive oil to restore the desired consistency.
Avoid freezing hummus, as the texture can become grainy and separate upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hummus
1. Can I use fresh cooked chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! Freshly cooked chickpeas work wonderfully. Just make sure they’re well-drained but save some of the cooking liquid to adjust the hummus texture as needed.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for various dietary needs.
3. How can I make the hummus spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce during blending. Adjust to taste for your preferred heat level.
4. Can I prepare this hummus ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better when flavors have time to meld. Store it in the fridge and consume within 4 days.
5. What can I substitute for tahini if I don’t have any?
You can use almond butter or peanut butter in a pinch, though it will alter the flavor slightly. For a more neutral taste, try blending in some extra olive oil and a few toasted sesame seeds.
This recipe is inspired by farmersgirlkitchen
