Lentil hummus, perfect for spreading on crostini, serving as an appetizer or adding to a vegetarian main dish.
This version made with split lentils is one of the many variations of the traditional Lebanese recipe based on chickpeas and tahini sauce.
This vegan recipe, naturally gluten-free, is rich in plant proteins, fiber, and flavor. It’s quick to prepare thanks to the use of red split lentils, which cook in just 10-15 minutes and provide a soft, creamy texture. Making it even more special are the fresh lemon juice, tahini (sesame paste), a pinch of smoked paprika, and a good extra virgin olive oil.
The result? A creamy and spiced hummus, with a balanced and slightly smoky flavor, perfect for an unusual appetizer or to keep ready in the fridge for light and nutritious lunches.
If you love quick, healthy, and flavorful dishes, this recipe is for you. I’ll explain everything step by step, with some tips to customize it according to your tastes (for example, with fresh herbs or different spices). Once you try lentil hummus, you won’t be able to do without it!
At the end of the recipe, in the FAQ section, I have answered some questions regarding this preparation. If you have other doubts or curiosities, write a comment or use the contact form at the end of the page.
If you are a hummus lover, don’t miss:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Cheap
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 4
- Cooking methods: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Lebanese
- Seasonality: All Seasons
- Energy 171.06 (Kcal)
- Carbohydrates 22.07 (g) of which sugars 0.36 (g)
- Proteins 8.45 (g)
- Fat 6.38 (g) of which saturated 0.89 (g)of which unsaturated 2.69 (g)
- Fibers 4.37 (g)
- Sodium 496.59 (mg)
Indicative values for a portion of 150 g processed in an automated way starting from the nutritional information available on the CREA* and FoodData Central** databases. It is not food and / or nutritional advice.
* CREATES Food and Nutrition Research Center: https://www.crea.gov.it/alimenti-e-nutrizione https://www.alimentinutrizione.it ** U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
Ingredients for Lentil Hummus
- 4.2 oz red split lentils
- 1 cup water
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tbsp tahini
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Equipment
- 1 Pot
- 1 Blender
- 1 Citrus Juicer
Preparation of Lentil Hummus
Disclaimer: the “Ingredients” and “Equipment” sections contain affiliate links.
Find this recipe in the collection Sweet and Savory Vegan Recipes, over 50 ideas for all tastes.
Start the preparation of the lentil hummus by rinsing the red split lentils, taking care to remove any small stones or dirt.
Place them in a pot, cover with twice their weight in water, and cook on low heat for about 15 minutes.
Drain them very well and let them cool.
Transfer the now cooled lentils to a blender along with a clove of garlic, tahini, the juice of half a lemon, salt, and smoked paprika.
Blend until you obtain a smooth and very soft cream.
Transfer the lentil hummus to a bowl or a plate.
Flatten it with the back of a spoon and complete the preparation with a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Lentil Hummus
Consult this section to clear your doubts. If you don’t find the answer to your question, comment or write using the form below.
With split lentils, I also prepared Carrot and Lentil Cream.
FAQ
Can I use other types of lentils instead of red ones?
Yes! Red split lentils cook quickly and have a perfect consistency for achieving creamy hummus, but you can also use green or brown lentils. In that case, extend the cooking time and blend thoroughly to achieve a smooth cream. The flavor will be slightly more intense.
What can I use instead of tahini?
If you don’t have tahini, you can replace it with almond butter, peanut butter, or even a teaspoon of sesame oil. Alternatively, you can omit it entirely: the result will still be tasty, even if less “classic.”
How do I store lentil hummus?
Store it in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. I recommend covering the surface with a layer of extra virgin olive oil to keep it softer and more fragrant.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, you can freeze it in portions. Just let it thaw in the fridge and mix well before serving. If needed, add a drop of water or oil to restore its creaminess.
Ideas to customize lentil hummus?
You can enrich your hummus with:
– a pinch of ground cumin or coriander
– fresh herbs (parsley, mint, or basil)
– a tablespoon of yogurt for a softer version
– chili powder for a spicy touch
– cooked beetroot for a vibrant color and sweeter taste
Also try Mujadara, a simple version of Middle Eastern rice and lentils
For questions, curiosities, or if you want to collaborate with me, use the contact form below:
[contact-form-7 id=”d8b7d03″ title=”Contact Me”]
