Black Bean Hummus

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I still remember the day I ran out of chickpeas but craved the comforting creaminess of hummus. A can of black beans sat in my pantry, and I thought, “Why not see if they’ll work just as well?” One test run later, and I found myself captivated by the smoky, rich taste of this new spin on a classic dip. Black bean hummus quickly became a staple in my kitchen, a hearty, fiber packed option that pairs wonderfully with veggies, crackers, or even as a spread on sandwiches. Whether you’re seeking a change from the usual chickpea version or simply eager to add more plant based protein to your menu, this dish meets the mark with a delicious southwestern flair.

The steps remain simple: gather your beans, toss them in a blender with basic hummus ingredients, and blend until creamy. A few small tweaks like a dash of cumin or a hint of chipotle can elevate the flavor without piling on extra calories or sodium. Below, we’ll walk through how to make black bean hummus at home, offering potential variations for everyone from spice lovers to fans of bright citrus. The best part? It all comes together in minutes, making it an ideal snack or party dish that’s mindful of nutritional goals.

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Prep Time, Approximate Calories, and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None (just blending)
• Calories: ~100 per ¼ cup serving (estimate)
• Servings: ~6 (makes about 1½ cups of hummus)

(Calorie estimate reflects standard black beans, moderate olive oil, and minimal tahini.)

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Step-by-Step: Crafting a Creamy, Flavorful Hummus

1. Drain and Rinse Your Black Beans

Start with 1 can (15 oz) of black beans, draining and rinsing them thoroughly under cool water. This step removes excess salt and any canning liquid that might affect the flavor or texture.

• Potential Hiccup: Overly salty final dip if the beans aren’t rinsed.
• Helpful Tip: If you prefer to cook black beans from scratch, save some of the cooking liquid in case you need to thin out the hummus.

2. Gather the Flavor Essentials

In a blender or food processor, combine:

• Black beans (rinsed and drained)
• 2 tablespoons of tahini (or a nut/seed butter if you prefer)
• 1-2 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice (or lemon if that’s on hand)
• ½ teaspoon of ground cumin (for an earthy note)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

If you crave more zest, add a pinch of chili powder, chipotle, or smoked paprika. For a subtle sweetness, you might also include a dash of honey or agave.

• Potential Hiccup: Bland hummus if under seasoned.
• Helpful Tip: Blend lightly, taste test, then adjust spices or salt to your preference.

3. Add Olive Oil Gradually

Begin blending and drizzle in 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil (extra virgin if possible). This step brings creaminess and richness. If you’re monitoring fat intake, use less oil and substitute water or reserved bean liquid to thin the mixture. Aim for a smooth consistency, pausing to scrape down the sides of the blender.

• Potential Hiccup: Sticky or pasty consistency.
• Helpful Tip: Alternate small splashes of oil and water (or bean cooking liquid) until you hit that perfect, dippable texture.

4. Adjust Flavor and Consistency

Stop blending and dip a spoon in for a taste. You may want more lime juice for tang, extra cumin for depth, or a bit more salt or pepper. If it’s too thick, drizzle in a bit of water. If you love a spicy kick, toss in a pinch of cayenne or a squirt of hot sauce. Blend again briefly to incorporate changes.

• Potential Hiccup: Overblending leading to an overly whipped texture.
• Helpful Tip: Pulsing in short bursts can help you control texture more precisely.

5. Plate, Garnish, and Serve

Spoon the black bean hummus into a serving bowl. You can create a small well in the middle and drizzle extra olive oil or top with chopped cilantro or crumbled queso fresco if you’re not strictly vegan. For a southwestern finish, sprinkle diced tomatoes or roasted corn kernels on top.

• Potential Hiccup: Hummus drying out if left uncovered.
• Helpful Tip: If you’re not serving immediately, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap so it maintains moisture and color.

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Nutrition Facts

A ¼ cup portion of black bean hummus might look like:

• Calories: ~100
• Fat: ~4-5g (largely from olive oil and tahini)
• Carbs: ~12-15g (high fiber)
• Fiber: ~4-5g
• Protein: ~4-5g
• Sodium: ~120-150mg (depending on added salt)

Switching from chickpeas to black beans ups the iron content and offers a distinctive flavor. Using moderate oil and tahini keeps the fat content in check.

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Tips for Maximum Freshness and Storage

Cover any leftover hummus and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If the top appears dry after storing, stir in a spoonful of water or a bit more lime juice to revive it. Keep it in a well sealed container to preserve aroma and avoid absorbing fridge odors.

Advance Prep: For parties, you can blend the hummus the day before. Give it a quick stir or blend just before serving to freshen up its texture.

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A Personal Take on Flavor Additions

While classic black bean hummus stands well on its own, feel free to experiment:

• Roasted Peppers: Blend in half a roasted red pepper for extra sweetness and color.
• Herbal Twist: Add fresh cilantro for a bright, herbal note.
• Cheesy Flair: A sprinkle of grated cotija or feta can add tang if dairy is on the menu.
• Extra Veggies: Blend in a handful of spinach or kale to boost the nutrient content further.

If you enjoy smoky undertones, smoked paprika or chipotle powder complements black beans beautifully.

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Pairing Suggestions with Other Recipes

Black bean hummus pairs nicely with crunchy vegetable sticks (like carrots, celery, or cucumbers) or baked tortilla chips for a southwestern spin. It also functions as a sandwich spread, try it in place of mayo on our Creamy Pasta Bake side dish, or load it onto your favorite breakfast toast from Easy Gym Recipes. If you’re hosting a get together, set it alongside salsas, guacamole, and a fresh green salad to round out a robust appetizer spread.

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Pin This Recipe for Later

Feel intrigued by this vibrant dip? Pin this Black Bean Hummus and label it: “Easy, protein packed dip with a twist!” so you can find it next time you’re planning a simple snack or party platter.