Pea & Chilli Hummus Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Twist on a Classic - Root Kitchen UK

Pea & Chilli Hummus Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Twist on a Classic

David Beaver

Hummus has long been a staple in many kitchens, a creamy, versatile dip that pairs perfectly with everything from crisp vegetables to warm pita bread. But have you ever thought about giving it a twist? Well, we’ve got just the thing for you—Pea & Chilli Hummus! This vibrant variation of the classic dip is not only bursting with flavour but also packed with nutrients that are perfect for a healthy snack or a party platter.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a fresh, zesty dip that’s a little bit different from the usual. Plus, it’s easy to make, and it’ll last up to five days in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. So, if you’re looking for a quick, tasty, and healthy snack, look no further!

Let’s dive in and discover how to make this delicious Pea & Chilli Hummus. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or just someone who enjoys trying new flavours, this hummus will hit the spot!


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First, let’s talk about why this Pea & Chilli Hummus is a must-try. Traditional hummus is made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon, and olive oil. While this recipe uses similar ingredients, it’s the peas and chilli flakes that give it a unique twist.

  • Packed with Nutrients: Peas are a fantastic source of iron, which is essential for producing haemoglobin in the blood. Haemoglobin helps carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body, which is why iron is so crucial for our health. Since vegan sources of iron can be tricky to come by, peas are a brilliant addition to your diet. Not only do they provide iron, but they’re also rich in protein, fibre, and various vitamins, making them a powerhouse of nutrition.

  • Flavourful Kick: The chilli flakes bring just the right amount of heat to balance the sweetness of the peas, giving the dip a bit of a spicy kick. It's not overpowering, just a gentle warmth that will keep you coming back for more.

  • Versatile: The best part? This Pea & Chilli Hummus is incredibly versatile. You can pair it with crackers, pita bread, fresh vegetable sticks like cucumber, carrot, and celery, or use it as a spread in sandwiches and wraps. It’s great for picnics, BBQs, or just a quick snack at home.

  • Long-lasting: If you’re worried about leftovers, don’t be! This hummus can be stored in the fridge for up to five days. So, if you make a batch at the start of the week, you’ll have a tasty snack ready for a few days.


Ingredients You’ll Need

This Pea & Chilli Hummus is made from simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 200g cooked peas: You can use frozen peas—just cook them up and let them cool before blending. Fresh peas would also work, but frozen peas are more convenient.
  • 2 garlic cloves: Garlic is the secret to giving this hummus its savoury depth. Be sure to crush or chop them finely so they blend in smoothly.
  • 1 tbsp tahini: Tahini adds creaminess and a nutty flavour to the dip. It’s a key ingredient in traditional hummus, so don’t skip it!
  • 1/2 lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavour and adds a nice tang.
  • 2 tbsp canned chickpeas: These add extra creaminess and a bit of texture to the dip. You can use a full can if you like, but we only need a small amount.
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Olive oil helps to blend everything together and gives the hummus a silky smooth consistency.
  • Salt & pepper: These are for seasoning, so add to taste.
  • Pinch of chilli flakes: This is where the magic happens! The chilli flakes add a subtle heat to the dip, making it an exciting twist on the classic recipe.

How to Make Pea & Chilli Hummus

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s walk through how to make this incredible Pea & Chilli Hummus.

  1. Cook the Peas: If you’re using frozen peas, cook them according to the package instructions. Typically, you can just boil them for a couple of minutes in hot water. Once cooked, drain them and give them a quick rinse under cold water to stop them from cooking further. If you’re using fresh peas, make sure they’re tender before proceeding.

  2. Prepare the Other Ingredients: While the peas are cooling down, peel the garlic cloves and chop them roughly. You can also drain the chickpeas from the can and set them aside.

  3. Blend Everything Together: Place the cooked peas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, chickpeas, olive oil, salt, pepper, and chilli flakes into a blender or food processor. Give everything a good blitz until it forms a smooth paste. If the mixture is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to help it blend. Keep adding water until you reach your desired consistency.

  4. Taste and Adjust: After blending, give the hummus a taste. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or chilli flakes depending on your preferences. If you like it spicier, go ahead and add more chilli flakes for an extra kick!

  5. Serve and Store: Once you’re happy with the flavour and texture, transfer your Pea & Chilli Hummus into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to five days. It’s great for meal prep, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.


Tips and Variations

  • Spice it up: If you like things really spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small fresh red chilli for an extra punch. You could even drizzle some chilli oil over the top for an added kick.

  • For extra creaminess: If you prefer a super silky hummus, try adding a small amount of Greek yoghurt (if you're not strictly vegan) or a bit more tahini for a richer texture.

  • Add herbs: Fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or coriander could be added either into the blend for a fresh flavour or sprinkled on top as a garnish.

  • Top with roasted veggies: To take your hummus to the next level, top it with some roasted vegetables like bell peppers, aubergine, or courgettes for added flavour and texture.


How to Serve Your Pea & Chilli Hummus

Pea & Chilli Hummus is super versatile and can be served in so many ways. Here are a few ideas for how to enjoy it:

  1. As a Dip: This is the classic way to enjoy hummus. Serve it with pita bread, crackers, or vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumber, and celery. It’s perfect for dipping at a party or when you’re just in the mood for a snack.

  2. Spread on Sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of Pea & Chilli Hummus on your favourite sandwich or wrap. It’s a great alternative to mayonnaise or butter and adds a lovely creamy texture and zesty flavour.

  3. Topped on Salads: Spoon some of the hummus over a fresh salad for a creamy dressing that’s much healthier than traditional creamy dressings. It’s a great way to add some extra protein and flavour to your greens.

  4. With Grilled Meats or Veggies: Pea & Chilli Hummus works wonderfully as a side dish with grilled chicken, lamb, or even grilled vegetables. The slight heat of the chilli and the creamy texture of the peas complement the charred flavours of the grill.


Final Thoughts

This Pea & Chilli Hummus is a refreshing twist on the traditional version, offering a bright, nutritious alternative that’s packed with flavour. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a vibrant dip for a party platter, or a quick and easy meal prep option, this hummus will not disappoint.

The best part is, it’s so easy to make, and you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to boost your iron intake with peas, making it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians.

So, grab those peas and get blending—you’re in for a treat!


Want more healthy, delicious meals? Why not explore our range of vegan ready meals that are perfect for quick lunches or dinners? Or, if you're in the mood to try something new, check out our collection of frozen vegan meals that are delivered straight to your door. For ultimate convenience, we even offer vegan meals delivered, so you can enjoy healthy, plant-based meals without the hassle of cooking.

Don’t forget to share your version of the Pea & Chilli Hummus on Instagram! Tag us @rootkitchenuk and let us know how you made it your own.

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