Moroccan Spiced Hummus (without tahini)

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Excite your tastebuds! This easy Moroccan spiced hummus without tahini is spicy, smoky, and deliciously creamy. So, get your crackers, veggies, and pita bread because this spicy hummus is about to become your new go-to dip!

moroccan spiced hummus in beige bowl with crackers and nuts on beige marble background.

Welcome to the world of flavorful and zesty hummus! I will show you how to create the best Moroccan spiced hummus, which will make your taste buds jump. Whether you're hosting a party, need a quick snack, or want to indulge in a savory treat, this tahini-free hummus will never disappoint!

Love a flavorful condiment? Try this mango hot sauce, Thai basil pesto, and lemon herb dressing to enhance your meals.

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A Fiery twist with spiced hummus
Why you'll love this recipe
Ingredient notes
Tips & substitutions
How to make hummus without tahini
Expert tip
What to serve with Moroccan spiced hummus
Recipe FAQs
More spicy recipes
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A Fiery twist with spiced hummus

Harissa paste, a key ingredient in this Moroccan spiced hummus, brings a vibrant and bold flavor to this spicy harissa hummus. Originating from North Africa, this fiery paste is made of hot paprika, garlic, coriander, caraway, and often herbs. Its deep red color hints at the intense heat, making it perfect if you like it spicy.

When incorporated into hummus, harissa paste infuses the creamy chickpea base with a kick, adding depth and complexity to every bite. It brings a touch of smokiness, a burst of heat, and a hint of earthiness that elevates the overall flavor of the hummus.

Get ready to savor the vibrant and bold flavors this recipe delivers!

Why you'll love this recipe

Flavorful and spicy – Are you a fan of bold flavors? Then this hummus is perfect for you. Packed with aromatic spices and the fiery kick of harissa paste, it delivers an explosion of flavors in creamy form.
Tahini-free option – Traditional hummus recipes typically include tahini, which may not be readily available or preferred by everyone. But this recipe is an alternative that doesn't compromise on texture.
Quick and easy – With simple ingredients and a food processor or blender, you can whip up a batch of spicy hummus in 5 minutes. Perfect for last-minute snacks or when you crave a flavorful treat.
Versatile crowd-pleaser – Use it as a dip for pita bread, tortilla chips, or fresh vegetables. Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for an extra kick. Its bold flavors will impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe.

Ingredient notes

ingredients for spicy hummus without tahini.

Chickpeas – You can use canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans) for convenience or cook dried chickpeas from scratch. If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them thoroughly before using.
Olive oil – Extra virgin olive oil works best in hummus. However, you can use regular olive oil if you like that better.
Garlic – Adjust the amount of garlic based on your personal preference.
Spices – Ground cumin and paprika add depth to the hummus. If you enjoy extra heat, add cayenne pepper or other spicy seasonings.
Harissa paste – Look for harissa paste in specialty stores or the international section of your grocery store. The heat level and flavor intensity can vary, so taste it first and adjust the amount if needed.
Lemon juice (optional) – Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and tanginess to the hummus.
Salt – Season your hummus with salt to enhance the flavors. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

See recipe card for quantities.

Tips & substitutions

Adjust the spiciness – The level of spiciness can vary depending on personal preference. Start with the suggested amount of harissa paste in the recipe, and gradually add more if you desire a hotter hummus.
Experiment with other spices – Smoked paprika, chipotle powder, or a pinch of cinnamon can add dimension to the hummus.
Substitute harissa paste – Don't have harissa paste on hand? Use other hot chili pastes or sauces, like sriracha or sambal oelek.
Top it off – Get creative when topping the spiced hummus. Sprinkle fresh herbs, toasted sesame seeds, and other spices over the hummus. Also, drizzle with infused oils (such as chili or garlic), or add a dash of sumac for a tangy twist.

How to make hummus without tahini

Step 1: Place the drained and rinsed chickpeas in a food processor or blender. Add the garlic clove, spices, and harissa paste. Blend until chickpeas are mashed and combined with the other ingredients. Scrape sides occasionally to help the blending process.

Slowly add olive oil, one tablespoon at a time, while blending. Use cold water to add to the creaminess and thin the hummus to the desired consistency.

Step 2: Slowly add olive oil, one tablespoon at a time, while blending. Use cold water to add to the creaminess and thin the hummus to the desired consistency.

Taste the hummus and season with salt and lemon juice (optional). Serve with pita bread, crackers, fresh vegetables, and more.

harissa hummus in beige bowl with crackers and nuts on beige marble background.

Expert tip

After preparing the hummus, cover it and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This resting period allows the spices and flavors to infuse into the chickpea mixture, resulting in a more harmonious and flavorful hummus.

What to serve with Moroccan spiced hummus

This spicy hummus is a crowd-pleaser and pairs well with dippers and other accompaniments. Here are some delicious options to serve with the hummus:

Pita Bread – The softness of warm pita bread is the perfect base for scooping up the spicy hummus dip.
Tortilla chips or crackers – Crispy chips add a delightful crunch and work perfectly with the creamy and spicy hummus. Try these homemade pita chips to dip into the creamy hummus.
Fresh vegetables – Serve an array of fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes. The cool veggies provide a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the hummus.
Roasted vegetables – For a warm and smoky twist, roast vegetables like these herb-roasted butternut squash or air fryer roasted carrots.
Falafel – Serve this spicy hummus alongside freshly fried or baked falafel. The combination of the falafel and the creamy hummus is a match made in flavorful heaven.
Wraps – This spicy harissa hummus is also delicious when added to these harissa chicken tortilla wraps. Spread one tablespoon of the hummus onto the wrap before assembling it with the other ingredients for a creamy addition.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make the hummus less spicy if it turns out too hot?

If the spiciness is still too intense, you can increase the amounts of the other non-spicy ingredients in the recipe. For example, add more chickpeas, olive oil, or lemon juice to balance the flavors and take out some heat.

How can I ensure a smooth and creamy texture without tahini?

While tahini is a traditional ingredient in hummus that contributes to its smooth and creamy texture, you can still achieve a similar consistency without using it.

Increase the amount of extra virgin olive oil if you want an even creamier texture. Olive oil adds richness to the hummus and helps to achieve a smoother texture. Alternatively, you can incorporate creamy nut butter like almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter. They contribute a silky texture and a hint of nuttiness to the hummus.

What are some creative ways to garnish the spicy hummus?

To garnish the spicy hummus, you have plenty of creative options to make it look even more delicious. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle over different spices like paprika, cayenne, sumac, and other spices you like. Fresh herbs, sesame seeds, and pickled vegetables add extra flavor and excitement to the creamy hummus.

Can I make the hummus ahead of time for a party or gathering?

Making hummus ahead of time for a party is a great idea. It allows the flavors to meld and develop over time. Ensure that the container is clean and dry before you add the hummus. Transfer the prepared hummus into an airtight container. Place the container and store it for 3 to 4 days.

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Nutritional values are estimates only calculated with the recipe calorie and nutrition calculator provided by verywellfit.com. The author of this website is not a nutritionist nor a doctor. All nutritional data provided in the recipes and correspondent blog posts are for informational purposes only. Do not use the information as nutritional or medical advice.