Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Oh, friends, let me tell you about this Roasted Pumpkin Hummus. It’s not just hummus; it’s an autumnal explosion of flavor that has completely won over my family. We’re big hummus fans in general, but this pumpkin twist? It’s on another level. The subtle sweetness of the roasted pumpkin, the warm spice notes, and the creamy texture… it’s simply irresistible. Last weekend, I whipped up a batch for a casual get-together, and it vanished within minutes. Even my picky nephew, who usually turns his nose up at anything remotely “healthy,” was happily scooping it up with pita chips. Honestly, this recipe has become a staple in our house, not just during fall, but any time we crave a healthy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dip. Prepare to be amazed – this Roasted Pumpkin Hummus is about to become your new favorite too!

Ingredients: What You’ll Need to Make Delicious Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

• Pumpkin Puree (1 ½ cups): Canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!) forms the heart of this hummus, providing that signature fall flavor and creamy texture. Roasting it first elevates the sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Chickpeas (1 can, 15 oz): The classic hummus base! Canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed, create the foundation for a smooth and satisfying dip.
• Tahini (¼ cup): Sesame seed paste that’s crucial for authentic hummus flavor. Look for good quality tahini – it should be smooth and slightly nutty, not bitter.
• Lemon Juice (3 tablespoons): Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the hummus and adds a necessary tang to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Adds a pungent kick. Roasting the garlic cloves alongside the pumpkin mellows their flavor and adds a subtle sweetness.
• Olive Oil (¼ cup + 2 tablespoons): Extra virgin olive oil is used both for roasting the pumpkin and blending into the hummus, contributing richness and healthy fats.
• Cumin (1 teaspoon): Warm and earthy spice that complements both pumpkin and chickpeas beautifully, adding depth and complexity.
• Cinnamon (½ teaspoon): A touch of cinnamon enhances the autumnal flavor profile and adds a hint of sweetness and warmth.
• Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): A pinch of nutmeg further amplifies the warm spice notes, creating a cozy and inviting aroma and taste.
• Ginger (¼ teaspoon ground or ½ teaspoon grated fresh): Adds a subtle zing and warmth that balances the sweetness and complements the other spices.
• Salt (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your preference.
• Water (2-4 tablespoons): Used to adjust the consistency of the hummus to achieve the desired smoothness.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pumpkin and Garlic: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a small bowl, toss the pumpkin puree with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Spread the seasoned pumpkin puree evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Place the unpeeled garlic cloves on the same baking sheet.
2. Roast Pumpkin and Garlic: Roast the pumpkin and garlic in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is slightly caramelized around the edges and the garlic cloves are soft and fragrant. The roasting process intensifies the pumpkin flavor and mellows the garlic, creating a richer, sweeter hummus.
3. Cool and Prepare Garlic: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the pumpkin and garlic cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins. Discard the skins and set the roasted garlic aside.
4. Combine Ingredients in Food Processor: In a food processor, combine the roasted pumpkin puree, drained and rinsed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, roasted garlic cloves, cumin, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
5. Blend Until Smooth: Process the mixture until it is very smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the food processor as needed. This may take a few minutes to achieve a completely smooth texture.
6. Adjust Consistency and Seasoning: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in 2-4 tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired consistency. Taste the hummus and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, lemon juice, or cumin to taste. For a richer flavor, you can also add an extra drizzle of olive oil.
7. Chill and Serve: Transfer the roasted pumpkin hummus to a serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. Chilling also helps to thicken the hummus slightly.
8. Garnish and Enjoy: Before serving, drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, chopped fresh parsley, toasted pumpkin seeds, or a swirl of cinnamon. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, crackers, or your favorite dippers.

Nutrition Facts: A Healthy and Flavorful Choice (Per Serving)

• Servings: Approximately 12 servings (based on ¼ cup serving size)
• Calories: Approximately 120 calories per serving
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy Fall Flavor

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (includes preparing pumpkin and garlic for roasting)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (roasting pumpkin and garlic)
• Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes (including cooling and blending time)

This Roasted Pumpkin Hummus is relatively quick to prepare, especially considering the incredible depth of flavor you achieve. Most of the time is hands-off roasting time, allowing you to multitask or relax while the oven works its magic. It’s a fantastic recipe for a weeknight appetizer or a weekend gathering.

How to Serve Roasted Pumpkin Hummus: Creative and Delicious Ideas

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus is incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

• Classic Dip:
  • Pita Bread: Warm pita bread, cut into wedges, is the quintessential pairing for hummus.
  • Vegetable Sticks: Carrots, celery, cucumbers, bell peppers, and broccoli florets are all excellent healthy dippers.
  • Crackers and Chips: Whole-wheat crackers, pita chips, tortilla chips, or even pretzel chips provide a satisfying crunch.
• Spread and Sauce:
  • Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread a layer of roasted pumpkin hummus on sandwiches or wraps for added flavor and moisture. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or falafel.
  • Toast and Crostini: Spread on toasted bread or crostini and top with roasted vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a simple appetizer.
  • Salad Dressing Base: Thin out the hummus with a little water or lemon juice to create a creamy and flavorful salad dressing.
  • Pasta Sauce: For a unique and creamy pasta sauce, toss cooked pasta with roasted pumpkin hummus and a little pasta water. Add some roasted vegetables or protein for a complete meal.
• Appetizer Platters and Boards:
  • Hummus Platter: Feature roasted pumpkin hummus alongside other hummus variations (classic, roasted red pepper, etc.) and an array of dippers for a beautiful and crowd-pleasing appetizer platter.
  • Charcuterie Board Addition: Include a bowl of roasted pumpkin hummus on your charcuterie board for a vegetarian and flavorful element. It complements cheeses, cured meats, and olives beautifully.
• Beyond Dipping:
  • Stuffed Vegetables: Use roasted pumpkin hummus to stuff bell peppers, zucchini boats, or mushrooms before baking for a hearty and flavorful vegetarian meal.
  • Grain Bowls: Add a dollop of roasted pumpkin hummus to grain bowls with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or farro for extra creaminess and flavor.

Additional Tips for the Best Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

1. Roast for Deeper Flavor: Don’t skip roasting the pumpkin and garlic! This step is crucial for developing the signature sweet and savory flavor of this hummus. Roasting caramelizes the pumpkin’s natural sugars and mellows the garlic’s sharpness.
2. Use Good Quality Tahini: Tahini is a key ingredient in hummus. Opt for a good quality tahini that is smooth, creamy, and has a slightly nutty flavor, not bitter. Stir the tahini well before measuring, as the oil tends to separate.
3. Fresh Lemon Juice is Best: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a noticeable difference in the brightness and flavor of the hummus compared to bottled lemon juice.
4. Adjust Spices to Your Taste: The spices in this recipe are a starting point. Feel free to adjust the amounts of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to your preference. You can also add a pinch of cloves or allspice for even more warmth. For a spicier hummus, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
5. Control the Texture with Water: Start with 2 tablespoons of water and add more gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Some people prefer thicker hummus, while others like it smoother and creamier.
6. Don’t Over-Process: While you want the hummus to be smooth, avoid over-processing, which can make it gummy. Blend until just smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the food processor as needed.
7. Chill for Enhanced Flavor: Chilling the hummus in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and deepen. It also improves the texture, making it slightly thicker and more cohesive.
8. Make it Ahead: Roasted Pumpkin Hummus is a great make-ahead appetizer. It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors often improve after a day or two! Just give it a good stir before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can! To use fresh pumpkin, roast pumpkin wedges until tender, then scoop out the flesh and puree it. You’ll need approximately 1 ½ cups of cooked pumpkin puree for this recipe. Roasting fresh pumpkin can add even more depth of flavor, but canned pumpkin puree is a convenient and readily available alternative that works wonderfully.

2. Can I make this hummus without tahini?

While tahini is a key ingredient in traditional hummus and contributes to its characteristic flavor and creamy texture, you can make a version without it. If you omit tahini, the hummus will have a slightly different flavor and texture, but it can still be delicious. You might consider adding a tablespoon or two of olive oil or a nut butter like almond butter for creaminess if you omit tahini.

3. Is Roasted Pumpkin Hummus vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for people with dietary restrictions. It relies on plant-based ingredients and does not contain any gluten. Always double-check ingredient labels, especially for tahini, to ensure they are certified gluten-free if necessary.

4. How long does Roasted Pumpkin Hummus last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Roasted Pumpkin Hummus will last for up to 4-5 days. It’s best to consume it within this timeframe for optimal flavor and freshness.

5. Can I freeze Roasted Pumpkin Hummus?

Yes, you can freeze hummus, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, transfer the hummus to an airtight freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You may need to stir in a tablespoon or two of olive oil or water to restore the creamy texture after thawing.

6. Can I make this hummus spicier?

Absolutely! To make spicy roasted pumpkin hummus, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the food processor along with the other ingredients. You can also add a roasted jalapeño pepper (seeds removed) for a smoky heat. Start with a small amount and adjust to your spice preference.

7. What if my hummus is too thick?

If your hummus is too thick, simply add a tablespoon or two of water or lemon juice and blend again until it reaches your desired consistency. Add liquid gradually to avoid making it too thin.

8. Can I use different spices in this hummus?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor profile. Consider adding a pinch of cloves, allspice, cardamom, or even smoked paprika. You can also adjust the ratios of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to create your perfect spice blend. Get creative and have fun with it!

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