This hummus with meat, also known as hummus ma lahma, is like eating beef kebabs with hummus. Spiced ground beef with pine nuts over hummus served along with pita, tahini, and salad. Hummus ma lahma is Arabic. The word ‘lahmeh’ meaning meat ? and bil meaning with. There, we learned a little bit of Arabic today. I always thought hummus was a vegetarian recipe until I started traveling to the Middle East. Oh, the many ways hummus is dressed up in this side of the world will have you eating hummus every day and never complain. One of my favorites is hummus with kebabs, topped with tahini and wrapped in laffa bread.
Why is this the best recipe
First and foremost, it’s the combination of smooth, creamy hummus and the mouthwatering flavors of ground beef that make this dish special. The hummus serves as the perfect canvas, allowing the rich and savory flavors of the meat to come alive with every bite. The contrast between the velvety hummus and the hearty meat creates a dynamic and satisfying texture. Another reason why this hummus ma lahma recipe stands out is the careful balance of flavors. The ground beef is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices, such as cumin, paprika, and garlic, which infuse the meat with a tantalizing aroma and depth of taste. The spices not only enhance the natural flavors of the beef but also complement the earthy notes of the hummus, resulting in a harmonious and well-rounded dish. Moreover, the addition of fresh herbs and lemon juice adds a refreshing and bright element to this hummus ma lahma. The herbs, like parsley and mint, provide a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the meat and hummus. Meanwhile, the tanginess from the lemon juice brings a zesty kick to the overall flavor profile, adding a delightful tang that keeps you coming back for more. Furthermore, what sets this recipe apart is the attention to detail in each component. From the silky smooth hummus made from scratch to the perfectly seasoned and browned ground beef, every element is crafted with care. The hummus is made using high-quality ingredients, ensuring a creamy and luxurious texture that elevates the entire dish. The ground beef is cooked until golden brown, developing a rich depth of flavor that complements the hummus beautifully.
Ingredients and substitutes
Chickpeas: The foundation of any great hummus, using high-quality chickpeas is essential. Opt for dried chickpeas if possible, as they yield a creamier and more flavorful hummus than canned ones. If you need more time, canned chickpeas can be a convenient substitute. Tahini: This sesame seed paste adds richness and creaminess to the hummus. Look for a high-quality tahini from roasted sesame seeds for the best results. If you can’t find tahini, substitute it with natural peanut butter or almond butter for a slightly different flavor profile. Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and tanginess to the hummus. It helps balance the tahini’s richness and complements the meat’s savory flavors. If you’re out of lemons, you can substitute them with an equal amount of white wine or apple cider vinegar. Garlic: A staple in hummus, garlic adds a zesty kick and depth of flavor. Use fresh garlic cloves for the best taste, but garlic powder can be a suitable substitute if you’re in a pinch. Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil not only enhances the flavor of the hummus but also adds a smooth and luscious texture. Look for a good-quality olive oil with a fruity and robust flavor. You can substitute with a light-tasting vegetable oil if you prefer a milder taste. Ground beef: For meat lovers, choosing high-quality ground beef is essential for achieving a rich and flavorful topping. Opt for lean ground beef with a higher fat content for added juiciness. If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute ground beef with lamb, chicken, or turkey.
Step-by-step: hummus with meat
Ground beef
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until the onions are translucent. Add the ground beef and sauté until the beef is no longer pink making sure to break the meat apart so we don’t have any big lumps.Pro tip – keep the heat on medium-high so excess moisture will evaporate from the ground beef. Then, add the spices (ground ginger, cumin, paprika). Season with salt and pepper. Add the chopped parsley and lemon juice. Cook until all the water has evaporated. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat and keep warm.
Hummus
Drain the can of chickpeas and reserve some liquid to use in the hummus.Pro tip – you must use cooked chickpeas for this recipe. If you don’t have canned follow the other method for making hummus from scratch below. In a food processor add garlic, chickpeas, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse for 30 seconds to a minute.Pro tip – Add 1/4 cup of the reserved liquid from the chickpeas if necessary to blend smooth. BUT do not add too much liquid just yet as we still need to add the oil and tahini. Next, add the tahini and olive oil. Blend for two full minutes. If necessary add a tablespoon or more of the reserved chickpea liquid.Pro tip – the olive oil emulsifies making the hummus light and creamy similar to whipping mayonnaise. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as necessary.
Serving hummus
You can make one large platter or a few individual servings as I have done in the video. In a shallow plate, put a spoonful of hummus. Use the back of the spoon to spread the hummus on the plate and create a swirl. Spoon the ground beef carefully leaving some space in the center for the tahini or olive oil. Add some tahini sauce in the center and drizzle some olive oil on top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy!
Delicious sides with hummus
Baba ganoush or Lebanese eggplant salad Avocado salad, beet salad, or chickpea salad Shawarma chicken, Ground beef kebabs, Best crispy falafel recipe
Tips for Success
First and foremost, the quality of ingredients plays a crucial role in the final outcome. Opt for fresh and high-quality meat, as well as chickpeas and tahini that are of excellent quality. Remember, the better the ingredients, the better the flavor. When it comes to cooking the meat, take your time and be patient. Slowly simmering the meat allows it to become tender and infuse with the flavorful spices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. And don’t forget to taste along the way! Adjust the seasoning to your preference, adding a pinch more salt or a dash of spice if needed. Another tip for success is to let the meat rest before assembling your hummus ma lahma. Allowing it to cool slightly prevents the meat from becoming too hot to handle and enhances the flavors as they meld together. Plus, it gives you a moment to appreciate the tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen. When it’s time to assemble, be generous with the hummus. Spread it onto a platter with care, creating an even layer that acts as a delicious base for the meat. Spoon the meat on top, ensuring an equal distribution across the hummus. This way, every bite will be a harmonious blend of creamy hummus and savory meat. Finally, remember that this recipe is meant to be a starting point for your culinary adventure. Feel free to experiment and add your personal touch. Whether it’s a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, a drizzle of tangy sauce, or a handful of crunchy nuts, these creative variations will elevate your hummus ma lahma to new heights.
Creative variations
For a Mediterranean twist, try adding a tablespoon of za’atar spice blend to the ground beef while cooking. The earthy flavors of thyme, oregano, and sesame will infuse the meat with a unique aroma. Alternatively, spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. If you’re looking to add a burst of freshness to your dish, consider incorporating some vibrant toppings. Finely diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions are classic choices that add a crisp texture and a refreshing taste. For a tangy kick, squeeze some lemon juice over the top or throw in a few pickled vegetables. And if you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint for a burst of unexpected flavors. But why stop at toppings? You can also play with the texture and consistency of your hummus ma lahma. For a creamier version, mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream. This will add a velvety richness and a subtle tang to the overall taste. Alternatively, if you prefer a chunkier texture, try folding in some diced roasted red peppers or olives. Their briny flavors will complement the meaty goodness of the dish.
Creative ways to serve hummus with beef
Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamier version. This will add a velvety richness and a subtle tang to the overall taste. Alternatively, if you prefer a chunkier texture, try folding in some diced roasted red peppers or olives. Their briny flavors will complement the meaty goodness of the dish. One innovative approach is to create hummus-stuffed meatballs. Mix ground beef with traditional Middle Eastern spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika, and form small meatballs around a spoonful of hummus. Bake or fry them until golden brown and serve as a delicious appetizer or main dish. If you’re a fan of sliders, why not try substituting the traditional patty with a flavorful hummus and ground beef mixture? Form small patties using a blend of ground beef, minced onions, garlic, and spices, then cook them to your desired level of doneness. Spread a generous dollop of hummus onto each small bun and top it off with the juicy ground beef patty for a unique twist on a beloved classic. For those who enjoy the smoky flavors of a barbecue, try incorporating the combination of hummus and ground beef into kebabs. Mix ground beef with grated onion and spices like sumac and allspice to create a flavorful meat mixture. Mold the mixture onto skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper and onion, then grill until the meat is cooked to perfection. Serve alongside a bowl of hummus for dipping, creating a dynamic and satisfying meal.
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Frequently asked questions
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