Black Eyed Pea Hummus

Black Eyed Pea Hummus is a delightful twist on the classic hummus dip, offering a creamy texture and rich flavor. This recipe swaps chickpeas for black eyed peas, creating a unique dip that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing snacks for game day, or looking for a healthy treat, this hummus is sure to impress. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and can be paired with various dippers like veggies or chips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: The use of black eyed peas gives this hummus a distinctive taste that sets it apart from traditional recipes.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dip in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with pita chips, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Health Benefits: Black eyed peas are high in fiber and protein, making this hummus not only tasty but also nutritious.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or casual get-together, this hummus fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Black Eyed Pea Hummus effortlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Silicone spatula
• Serving bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool ensures your ingredients blend smoothly into the perfect hummus consistency.
• Silicone spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of the food processor to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.
• Serving bowl: A nice bowl adds an appealing touch when presenting your delicious hummus.

Ingredients

This homemade hummus recipe replaces chickpeas with black eyed peas for an incredible dip packed full of New Year’s luck.

For the Hummus Base

• 2 15.5-ounce cans black eyed peas (liquid drained, reserved; beans rinsed)
• ¼ cup high-quality olive oil
• ¼ cup tahini
• 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (plus more as needed)
• 3 medium pressed garlic cloves
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Reserved liquid from cans of black eyed peas

For Serving

• Pita chips
• Tortilla chips
• Celery sticks
• Fresh vegetables

How to Make Black Eyed Pea Hummus

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. Drain and rinse the black eyed peas to remove excess sodium.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the black eyed peas, olive oil, tahini, lemon juice, garlic cloves, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the food processor bowl.
2. Secure the lid on the food processor and process until fully combined and mostly smooth. You may need to scrape down the sides with a silicone spatula occasionally.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency

1. Gradually add reserved liquid from the cans of black eyed peas while processing until you reach your desired consistency. We used about 1 tablespoon total; feel free to adjust based on preference.

Step 4: Taste and Season

1. Once smooth, taste your hummus and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
2. Process again briefly to mix in any additional seasoning.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap.
2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
3. When ready to serve, drizzle some olive oil on top if desired and enjoy with pita chips or fresh veggies!

How to Serve Black Eyed Pea Hummus

Black Eyed Pea Hummus is a versatile dip that can elevate any gathering or meal. It pairs well with a variety of sides, allowing you to get creative when serving.

With Pita Chips

• Pita chips are crispy and complement the creamy texture of the hummus perfectly. They add a satisfying crunch that enhances each bite.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Serve the hummus with an array of fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. This adds color and freshness to your platter while keeping it healthy.

As a Sandwich Spread

• Use Black Eyed Pea Hummus as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. It adds a unique flavor while providing extra protein and fiber.

With Tortilla Chips

• Tortilla chips offer a different crunch compared to pita chips. They bring a hint of corn flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spices in the hummus.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Incorporate Black Eyed Pea Hummus into your charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and nuts. It’s a great way to introduce plant-based options for guests.

With Grilled Meats

• Use the hummus as a side condiment for grilled chicken or turkey. The rich flavor pairs beautifully with smoky meats, adding depth to your meal.

How to Perfect Black Eyed Pea Hummus

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Black Eyed Pea Hummus, follow these simple tips.

• Use high-quality ingredients – Opt for fresh lemon juice and premium olive oil to enhance the overall taste.
• Adjust consistency – If your hummus is too thick, gradually add reserved liquid from the black eyed peas until you reach your desired smoothness.
• Season properly – Taste your hummus before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for the best flavor profile.
• Chill before serving – Allowing the hummus to chill for at least 30 minutes helps meld flavors together, resulting in a more cohesive taste.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add additional spices like cumin or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Garnish creatively – Drizzle olive oil on top or sprinkle smoked paprika for added presentation and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Black Eyed Pea Hummus

Pairing side dishes with your Black Eyed Pea Hummus can enhance its flavors and create a delightful spread. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese that adds brightness to your meal.
2. Stuffed Grape Leaves – These savory bites filled with rice and herbs provide a nice contrast in texture.
3. Roasted Vegetable Platter – Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant bring warmth and sweetness that complements the hummus.
4. Spiced Chickpea Patties – Crispy patties made from chickpeas offer another plant-based protein option alongside the hummus.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light salad featuring quinoa, parsley, lemon juice, and diced vegetables is both nutritious and filling.
6. Savory Crackers – Crisp crackers provide an easy way to enjoy the hummus without extra preparation.
7. Baba Ganoush – This eggplant dip introduces another layer of flavor while keeping it plant-based and delicious.
8. Grilled Flatbread – Warm flatbreads make an excellent vehicle for enjoying hummus while adding a delightful chewiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Black Eyed Pea Hummus, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Using unseasoned black eyed peas: Always rinse and drain your black eyed peas thoroughly. This helps remove excess sodium and enhances the hummus flavor.
• Not adjusting consistency: If your hummus is too thick, gradually add reserved liquid from the cans of black eyed peas. Aim for a creamy texture by adjusting as you blend.
• Skipping the chilling step: Don’t skip chilling your hummus! Letting it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Overlooking seasoning: Taste your hummus after blending and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Seasoning is key to making it delicious.
• Forgetting garnishes: Consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of smoked paprika before serving. This adds visual appeal and extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for about 3-5 days.

Freezing Black Eyed Pea Hummus

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months; be sure to leave some space for expansion.

Reheating Black Eyed Pea Hummus

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat on low, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Black Eyed Pea Hummus that might help you.

Can I use dried black eyed peas instead of canned?

Yes, you can use dried black eyed peas! Just be sure to soak and cook them thoroughly before blending.

How do I make my Black Eyed Pea Hummus spicier?

To add heat, try mixing in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during the blending process.

What can I serve with Black Eyed Pea Hummus?

This hummus pairs well with pita chips, tortilla chips, celery sticks, or fresh vegetables like carrots and bell peppers.

How long does Black Eyed Pea Hummus last?

When stored properly, this hummus lasts about 3-5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Black Eyed Pea Hummus is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different spices or toppings based on your preference. It’s perfect for parties, snacks, or as a healthy dip option. Give this recipe a try today!