Hummus Basar is a delicious twist on the classic Middle Eastern hummus that adds a rich and savory layer to this beloved dip. Originating from Levantine cuisine, this version incorporates tender, spiced ground meat, making it a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for gatherings or a flavorful snack.
We love how Hummus Basar combines creamy chickpeas with the bold flavors of garlic, lemon, and cumin, enhanced by the warmth of the meat topping. It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a light meal, this dish brings a unique and tasty experience to the table. Let’s dive into making our own Hummus Basar that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Hummus Basar, we need to gather fresh and flavorful ingredients for both the creamy hummus and the savory meat topping. Below are the detailed components to ensure an authentic and delicious dish.
For the Hummus
| Ingredient | Quantity | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chickpeas (cooked) | 2 cups | Preferably soaked overnight and boiled until soft |
| Tahini paste | 1/3 cup | Well-stirred |
| Garlic cloves | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1/4 cup | About 1 large lemon |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tablespoons | Plus extra for drizzling |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Freshly ground if possible |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Cold water | 1/4 cup | To adjust texture |
For the Basar (Meat Topping)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Prep Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef or lamb | 1/2 pound (225g) | Choose lean for best texture |
| Onion | 1 small | Finely chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 1 clove | Minced |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Adds warm earthiness |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon | For subtle sweetness |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon | Smoked paprika preferred |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Balance flavors |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | For sautéing |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons | Finely chopped, for garnish |
Additional Garnishes and Accompaniments
- Whole chickpeas (reserved from cooking) for texture contrast
- Pine nuts, toasted lightly for crunch
- Chopped fresh parsley to add freshness and color
- Extra virgin olive oil to drizzle generously over the top
- Sumac or paprika for a final sprinkle of spice and color
- Warm pita bread or crisp vegetable sticks for serving
This list ensures we have all the elements to prepare a visually stunning and deeply savory Hummus Basar that balances creamy, spicy, and fresh components perfectly.
Equipment Needed
To make Hummus Basar precisely and efficiently, having the right equipment is crucial. Here’s what we need to prepare this delicious, hearty dish with ease:
- Food Processor or Blender:
Essential for blending the chickpeas and tahini into a smooth and creamy hummus base.
- Large Mixing Bowl:
To combine and adjust the consistency of the hummus after blending.
- Skillet or Frying Pan:
Necessary for cooking the spiced ground meat topping (Basar) evenly and releasing its rich flavors.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups:
To measure spices, oil, lemon juice, and other ingredients accurately.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon:
For stirring the meat and scraping the sides of the food processor.
- Fine Mesh Sieve or Colander:
To rinse and drain cooked chickpeas properly, ensuring the right texture.
- Garlic Press (optional):
Makes mincing garlic quicker and more thorough for both hummus and meat.
- Serving Dish or Shallow Bowl:
For presenting the finished Hummus Basar beautifully, allowing you to layer the creamy base and meat topping with garnishes.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Food Processor | Blend chickpeas and tahini to creamy hummus |
| Large Mixing Bowl | Mix and adjust hummus consistency |
| Skillet/Frying Pan | Cook spiced ground meat topping |
| Measuring Spoons | Measure spices and liquids precisely |
| Spatula/Wooden Spoon | Stir meat and scrape processor sides |
| Fine Mesh Sieve | Rinse and drain chickpeas |
| Garlic Press | Mince garlic efficiently |
| Serving Dish | Present finished Hummus Basar |
By preparing these tools beforehand, we set ourselves up for success to create the perfect balance between the smooth hummus and the flavorful basar topping in our Hummus Basar Recipe.
Preparation
Let’s dive into the crucial steps that transform our ingredients into a perfectly balanced Hummus Basar layered with creamy texture and savory meat topping.
Preparing the Chickpeas
- Rinse the cooked chickpeas under cold running water using a fine mesh sieve to remove any residual salt or canning liquid.
- If using canned chickpeas, remove the skins by gently pinching each chickpea between your fingers. This step ensures an ultra-smooth and creamy hummus base.
- Transfer the peeled chickpeas into a bowl and set aside.
- Reserve a few whole chickpeas to garnish the finished dish later for texture and visual appeal.
Preparing the Basar (Meat)
- Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic, cooking until aromatic for about 30 seconds.
- Add 1/2 pound of ground beef or lamb to the pan. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon for even cooking.
- Season the meat with 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully browned and any liquid has evaporated.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of freshness.
Preparing the Tahini Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine 1/3 cup tahini paste with 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice.
- Whisk vigorously until the mixture thickens and lightens in color.
- Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Slowly add 1/4 cup cold water while whisking to achieve a smooth, pourable sauce consistency.
- Adjust seasoning and lemon juice to taste for perfect balance of tang and earthiness.
| Components | Key Steps | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chickpeas | Rinse, peel skins, reserve some for garnish | 10 minutes | Ensures creamy texture |
| Basar (Meat Topping) | Sauté onion, garlic, brown spiced meat | 15 minutes | Use fresh parsley for garnish |
| Tahini Sauce | Whisk tahini, lemon juice, garlic, spices | 5 minutes | Add water slowly for perfect consistency |
By carefully preparing each element—chickpeas, basar, and tahini sauce—we create a harmonious base and flavorful topping, essential for authentic and delicious Hummus Basar.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the detailed steps of preparing our Hummus Basar, ensuring every element shines with bold flavor and creamy texture.
Making the Hummus Base
- Rinse and peel chickpeas: Rinse 2 cups of cooked chickpeas under cold water. For a silky smooth hummus, gently pinch each chickpea between your fingers to remove the skins.
- Blend the base: In a food processor, combine the peeled chickpeas, ¼ cup tahini paste, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
- Add seasonings: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon ground cumin and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Emulsify: While the processor is running, slowly pour in ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil and ¼ cup cold water. Continue blending until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Adjust texture: If the hummus is too thick, add additional cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired velvety consistency.
Cooking the Basar Topping
- Sauté aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Brown the meat: Add 1 pound ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Add spices: Stir in 1 teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Continue cooking and stirring for 2 more minutes to let the spices infuse.
- Finish with fresh herbs: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh note.
Assembling the Hummus Basar
- Spread the base: Transfer the prepared hummus into a shallow serving dish. Using the back of a spoon, create a shallow well or swirl in the center.
- Add the Basar topping: Spoon the warm spiced meat mixture generously over the center of the hummus.
- Garnish artistically: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil around the edges. Scatter whole chickpeas and toasted pine nuts on top for texture and visual appeal.
- Serve with warmth: Present your Hummus Basar alongside warm pita bread or fresh vegetable crudités for dipping.
| Step | Time Required | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rinsing & peeling | 10 minutes | Essential for creamy texture |
| Blending base | 5 minutes | Adjust water for smoothness |
| Sauté aromatics | 6 minutes | Onion translucency matters |
| Browning meat | 8-10 minutes | Break meat finely for even cook |
| Spice infusion | 2 minutes | Do not rush this step |
| Assembly | 5 minutes | Visual presentation is key |
“The balance between creamy hummus and spiced Basar topping defines the essence of Hummus Basar.” Let’s ensure every step highlights those layers of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Hummus Basar experience, we recommend serving it with a variety of complementary sides and garnishes that enhance both flavor and presentation. This dish lends itself to multiple serving options, perfect for casual snacks or elegant appetizers.
Ideal Accompaniments
- Warm Pita Bread: Freshly toasted or warmed pita is the classic pairing. Tear it into wedges to scoop up the creamy hummus and savory basar topping effortlessly.
- Fresh Vegetable Crudités: Crisp cucumber sticks, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper strips, and carrot sticks provide a refreshing crunch that balances the rich flavors.
- Olive Oil Drizzle: A generous swirl of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the top adds richness and sheen while intensifying the traditional flavor notes.
- Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkling golden pine nuts garnishes the dish with a subtle nuttiness and delicate crunch which contrasts beautifully with the soft texture.
Serving Presentation Tips
- Create a Shallow Well in the center of the hummus base to nest the spiced basar evenly, ensuring every bite combines the creamy and meaty elements.
- Add Garnishes Thoughtfully around the edges: place whole chickpeas, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, and scatter toasted pine nuts for visual appeal.
- Serve on a Large Platter with small bowls of pickles, olives, or sumac-dusted onions nearby to provide guests with flavor customization options.
Flavor Pairing Table
| Accompaniment | Flavor Profile | Texture | Serving Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warm Pita Bread | Mild, slightly nutty | Soft, chewy | Tear into bite-sized wedges |
| Vegetable Crudités | Fresh, slightly sweet | Crisp, crunchy | Serve chilled for refreshing contrast |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Fruity, peppery | Smooth, oily | Drizzle generously over prepared hummus |
| Toasted Pine Nuts | Nutty, rich | Crunchy | Sprinkle just before serving for best crunch |
As we serve the Hummus Basar, encouraging guests to combine components themselves adds an interactive element — each bite becomes a personalized blend of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors. This approach highlights the dish’s versatility and appeals to a variety of taste preferences.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Proper storage and smart make-ahead strategies are essential to maintaining the vibrant flavors and creamy texture of our Hummus Basar. Here’s how we can keep our dish fresh and ready to serve whenever needed.
Storing Hummus Basar
To preserve both the hummus base and the Basar meat topping separately ensures the best texture and flavor upon serving.
- Hummus Base: Transfer to an airtight container. Cover the surface with a thin layer of extra virgin olive oil to prevent drying or oxidation.
- Basar Meat Topping: Cool completely before storing in a separate sealed container to maintain its juicy, spiced succulence.
Store both in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, gently stir the hummus base and reheat the basar topping in a skillet on low heat until warmed through.
| Component | Storage Container | Shelf Life (Refrigerator) | Reheating Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hummus Base | Airtight glass/plastic | Up to 3 days | Serve chilled or room temp |
| Basar Meat Topping | Airtight glass/plastic | Up to 3 days | Warm in skillet on low heat |
Freezing Tips
For longer storage, freeze each component separately.
- Portion hummus in freezer-safe containers leaving space for expansion.
- Keep basar meat topping in airtight freezer bags, flattening for quick thawing.
- Freeze up to 1 month for optimal flavor and texture.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Stir hummus thoroughly before serving, and reheat the meat topping on the stove.
Make-Ahead Preparation
Preparing Hummus Basar in advance saves us valuable time on busy days or when hosting.
- Hummus Base: Can be blended a day ahead. Refrigerate in an airtight container with olive oil on top.
- Basar Meat Topping: Cook up to 2 days ahead to let the spices meld fully. Store cooled and reheated before serving.
Serving from Storage
When ready to serve, arrange the hummus in a shallow dish, create a well in the center, and top with warmed basar meat. Garnish with fresh parsley, toasted pine nuts, and an extra drizzle of olive oil for that signature Hummus Basar presentation.
Conclusion
Hummus Basar brings a delightful twist to traditional hummus, combining creamy chickpeas with a rich, spiced meat topping. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a flavorful snack.
By mastering this recipe, we add a new layer of depth to our Middle Eastern-inspired meals. Whether for casual gatherings or special occasions, Hummus Basar offers a delicious way to impress and satisfy.
We encourage you to experiment with the flavors and presentation, making this dish your own. It’s a rewarding recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in our culinary repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hummus Basar?
Hummus Basar is a Middle Eastern dish that combines traditional creamy hummus with a spiced ground meat topping, usually beef or lamb. It adds a hearty and flavorful twist to classic hummus.
What ingredients are needed to make Hummus Basar?
Key ingredients include cooked chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, salt for the hummus base, and ground beef or lamb, onion, garlic, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, salt, pepper, olive oil, and parsley for the meat topping.
How do you achieve the perfect creamy hummus base?
Rinse and peel cooked chickpeas, then blend with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and cold water until smooth and creamy.
How is the Basar (meat topping) prepared?
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil, brown ground meat, then add spices like cumin, cinnamon, and paprika. Cook until meat is thoroughly done and flavors meld.
What are good serving suggestions for Hummus Basar?
Serve with warm pita bread, fresh vegetable crudités, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, toasted pine nuts, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
Can Hummus Basar be prepared in advance?
Yes, make the hummus base and Basar topping separately. Store each in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
How should Hummus Basar be stored?
Keep hummus covered with olive oil in an airtight container and refrigerate. Store the meat topping separately under refrigeration or freeze both components separately for longer freshness.
What equipment is needed to make Hummus Basar?
You’ll need a food processor or blender, a skillet or frying pan, measuring spoons/cups, a mixing bowl, a spatula or wooden spoon, a fine mesh sieve or colander, and optionally a garlic press.
How long does it take to prepare Hummus Basar?
Preparation time varies, but typically around 30-45 minutes including rinsing chickpeas, preparing the hummus base, cooking the meat topping, and assembling the dish.
How can I make Hummus Basar visually appealing?
Create a shallow well in the hummus, spoon the Basar meat on top, add garnishes like whole chickpeas, pine nuts, parsley, and drizzle olive oil for a colorful and appetizing presentation.