Name: Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup yellow lentils (uncooked); 2 cups water; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (chopped and tightly packed); 3 tablespoons tahini paste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons garlic (minced); 2 limes (juiced, large); 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cumin; 1/4-1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (to desired level of spiciness); black pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something so satisfying about making a delicious dip from scratch, and that’s why I love crafting my own Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus. Picture a cozy evening with friends gathered around the table, each one dipping a crispy chip into a vibrant bowl of this creamy goodness. The flavors are bold and delightful, a nod to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico, yet so approachable that everyone can enjoy it. Each bite is a burst of taste, with the hearty yellow lentils offering a unique twist on the classic chickpea hummus. I’ve made this often for gatherings and it never fails to impress – not just for its taste but for its vibrant color and nutritious profile.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
40 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
160 kcal

Protein:
9 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
4 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Blender, Food Processor, Large Pot, Chef’s Knife

What We Adore About This Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus

Nutritious and Wholesome

One of the first reasons to fall in love with Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus is its nutritional value. Packed with protein from the lentils, healthy fats from the olive oil, and a plethora of vitamins and minerals from the cilantro and garlic, this dip is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of good-for-you ingredients.

Deliciously Unique Flavor

This isn’t your average hummus. The addition of spices like ground cumin and cayenne pepper introduces a warm, earthy flavor that dances on your palate. The vibrant zest from fresh lime juice adds a refreshing kick, making each mouthful of this hummus an exciting culinary experience.

Easy to Prepare

If you think great flavors require complex techniques, think again! Preparing this Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus is straightforward. Simply cook your lentils, blend all ingredients, and you’re set! It’s the perfect recipe for busy evenings when you want to whip up something special in no time.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual night in with family or a festive gathering with friends, this hummus fits right in. Its versatility makes it suitable for any occasion, and it pairs beautifully with an array of sides, making it a fantastic appetizer or snack.

Perfectly Creamy Texture

One of the most satisfying aspects of this recipe is the creamy texture you achieve. The tahini and olive oil create a luscious consistency that spreads easily on crackers or veggies, and it’s even enjoyable straight from the bowl!

Crowd-Pleaser

Finally, this Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus has a universal appeal. It’s vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and a hit with both kids and adults alike. I’ve seen guests come back for seconds, and even thirds, because it’s just that good!

Ingredients Overview for Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus

The ingredients for Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus are both simple and wholesome. Each component plays a vital role in creating a dip that is not only flavorful but also nutritious. The yellow lentils serve as the base, providing both protein and fiber. The fresh cilantro and zesty lime juice bring a refreshing touch, while tahini adds creaminess and depth of flavor. This harmonious blend makes for a perfect snack or appetizer.

1 cup yellow lentils, uncooked: These lentils are high in protein and fiber, making them a great base for the hummus.
2 cups water: Used for cooking the lentils until they are soft.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the dip.
3 tablespoons tahini paste: Provides creaminess and a rich flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps create a smooth texture.
2 tablespoons garlic, minced: Infuses depth and a savory quality.
2 limes, juiced: Introduces acidity and freshness.
1 1/4 teaspoons ground cumin: Offers an earthy flavor that complements the lentils.
1/4-1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper: Adds heat to taste.
Black pepper: To taste, for additional seasoning.

Directions for Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus

Making Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create a dip that you and your guests will love. Start with cooking the lentils, then blend everything together for a creamy finish.

Start by combining the yellow lentils, water, and salt in a large pan. Place it over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Keep an eye on it as you want to ensure nothing overflows during the cooking process!
Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. It’s time to let those lentils simmer! Cook them until they’re extremely soft, which should take about 40 minutes. The water will absorb, leaving you with perfectly tender lentils.
After cooking, remove the pan from heat and let it cool slightly. Meanwhile, gather your food processor and all the other ingredients: tahini, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper.
Add the cooked lentils along with the rest of the ingredients into the food processor. Secure the lid, and blend until you reach a smooth and creamy consistency. Take a moment to scrape down the sides as necessary to ensure everything gets blended well.
Once you’ve achieved that velvety texture, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed. Feel free to add an extra squeeze of lime juice for some added brightness.
Finally, transfer your delicious Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus into a serving bowl. You can garnish it with a drizzle of olive oil or some extra chopped cilantro. Now, it’s time to dig in!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Lentils: Ensure the lentils are rinsed well before cooking. This removes impurities and helps with their texture.
Adjusting Spiciness: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
Serving Suggestions: This dip pairs beautifully with fresh veggies, pita chips, or tortilla chips for an added crunch.
Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It often tastes even better the next day!

Variations to Try

There are always ways to put a new spin on your Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus. Here are some variations to consider that can elevate your dip to new levels of flavor.

Roasted Peppers: Add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor. Just blend them into the mixture when processing.
Avocado: For an ultra-creamy texture, fold in some mashed avocado. It pairs perfectly with the other flavors!
Herbs Galore: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or dill in addition to or instead of cilantro.
Different Beans: You could swap yellow lentils for other beans like chickpeas or black beans for a twist.
Cheesy and Creamy: If you’re not strictly vegan, adding a bit of feta cheese can enhance the creaminess and tanginess.
Zesty Lemon: Replace the lime with lemon juice for a different citrus profile that still brightens up the dish.
Nutty Flavor: Include some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pine nuts, for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor contrast.

What Complements This Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus

Fresh Vegetables: Serve with an array of colorful fresh veggies like carrots, cucumber, or bell pepper slices for a healthy snack.
Pita Bread: Warm up some pita bread and cut into triangles. They make great vessels for scooping!
Tortilla Chips: For that perfect crunch, tortilla chips are a classic pairing that never disappoints.
Salads: This hummus can also be served alongside salads or as a dressing on grain bowls.
Occasions: Perfect for casual get-togethers or as an appetizer for larger gatherings.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge where it will last about three days.

FAQ

Absolutely! One of the great things about Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus is that it stores well in the refrigerator. You can prepare it a day or two in advance. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply stir it well and enjoy!

This hummus is versatile! You can serve it with an array of things such as fresh veggie sticks like carrots and cucumbers, pita bread, or tortilla chips. It also makes a great addition to sandwiches and wraps for extra flavor. Pair it with salads or grain bowls for a delightful meal!

Yes, you can freeze Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus. Just place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir before serving to restore its creamy texture.

If you like experimenting with flavors, you can easily adjust the taste of this hummus. For instance, adding more cayenne pepper will give it more heat, while a splash of lemon juice can enhance its brightness. Feel free to mix in different herbs or spices to find your perfect balance!

Conclusion

This Mexican Lentil Homemade Hummus is truly special because it combines rich, vibrant flavors with a healthy twist. It’s not just a dip; it’s a wonderful way to enjoy lentils and fresh ingredients. I encourage you to try making this at home; your taste buds will thank you! Share it with friends or keep it all to yourself – either way, it’s bound to be a hit!