Name: Harissa Hummus Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 15 oz canned chickpeas, drained; 1 tsp kosher salt (preferably Diamond Crystal brand); ½ cup tahini; 1½ tsp harissa paste (DHA brand recommended); 1 tsp harissa spice powder; ½ cup ice water; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Harissa hummus is a flavorful twist on the classic Middle Eastern dip, combining creamy chickpeas with the smoky heat of harissa. This easy recipe brings a vibrant kick to your snack or appetizer spread.

A white bowl filled with creamy beige hummus topped with a swirl of golden olive oil and a reddish-brown spice, sitting on a soft beige cloth. Around the bowl, several pieces of triangular toasted pita bread with light brown char marks are spread out on a white marbled surface. A half lemon with a pale yellow color and a small white bowl containing a pile of ground red spices are placed near the bowl of hummus. The look is warm and inviting, with textured layers and natural colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

15 oz chickpeas (drained)
1 tsp kosher salt (Diamond Crystal brand)
½ cup tahini
1½ tsp harissa paste (DHA brand recommended)
1 tsp harissa spice powder
½ cup ice water
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Add chickpeas, kosher salt, tahini, harissa paste, harissa spice powder, ice water, and lemon juice to a food processor or high-powered blender. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 2: With the blender on low, slowly drizzle in half of the olive oil to incorporate it evenly. Pour the hummus into a serving dish and drizzle the remaining olive oil on top for extra richness and shine.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, reduce the harissa paste and spice powder to taste or substitute with smoked paprika for a smoky but less spicy version.
Use well-rinsed canned chickpeas for convenience, and peel them for an ultra-smooth texture if desired.
Add freshly chopped parsley or toasted pine nuts on top for extra texture and color.

Storage

Store leftover harissa hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving and add a drizzle of olive oil if it looks dry. You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy light beige hummus, swirled on top with golden olive oil and a drizzle of deep red paprika or chili oil, placed on a light-colored cloth on a white marbled surface. Around the bowl, there are triangular pieces of pita bread with a slightly toasted look, arranged casually. To the left of the bowl, there is a half lemon with a bright yellow inside and a small white bowl filled with a reddish-brown spice. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make harissa hummus without harissa paste?

Yes, you can substitute harissa paste with a blend of chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cumin for a similar smoky and spicy flavor, though the taste won’t be exactly the same.

What can I serve with harissa hummus?

Harissa hummus pairs beautifully with warm pita bread, fresh vegetable sticks, crackers, or as a spread on sandwiches and wraps for a flavorful boost.