Incredible Kidney Bean Hummus

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Indulge your taste buds with this creamy and delicious kidney bean hummus recipe! It's a delightful twist on your classic hummus, with a pretty pink hue as a bonus.

Kidney bean dip in a bowl with sesame seeds.

Hummus is a household staple, and I'm thrilled to add this kidney bean dip to our recipe collection. While traditionally made with chickpeas, kidney beans offer even more protein and fibre per serving, making them a nutritious choice. With their smooth and creamy texture, kidney beans are a favourite of mine, alongside chickpeas.

This kidney bean hummus is a great alternative, with so many wats to dress it up. It's effortless to prepare too! Simply blend until smooth, and you'll have the perfect dip in about 10 minutes.

Ingredients you'll need

All you need to make this kidney bean hummus recipe are 7 key ingredients:

Kidney Beans: Drained and rinsed. Also known as red beans, these will make a creamy base for the hummus.
Garlic: For flavour. You can also use garlic powder if that is what you have.
Tahini: Just like classic hummus, a core ingredient here is tahini paste. This is a creamy paste made of ground sesame seeds. It will give the hummus a lovely nutty flavour and rich texture.
Lime: Both the juice and zest of one lime add a zingy and bright flavour. Lemon juice can be used as an alternative.
Seasonings: Coriander, cumin, onion powder, and salt, enhance the dip with delicious flavours.
To garnish: Fresh herbs, sesame seeds, chilli flakes, and olive oil.

The complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

How to make Kidney Bean Hummus

Rinse Beans: Drain and rinse the kidney beans thoroughly.

Blend: Add the kidney beans, tahini, garlic, lime juice + zest, and seasonings (coriander, cumin, onion powder, and salt) to a food processor or high-speed blender. Puree for 2-3 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Adjust + ice: Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, drop in an ice cube and blend again. The ice cube helps maintain the hummus's freshness and gives it a light, airy texture.

Optionally serve topped with fresh herbs, sesame seeds, chilli flakes, and drizzle with olive oil.

Recipe Variations

White Beans: Substitute navy beans (great northern beans) or cannellini beans for kidney beans to create a white bean hummus.
Garlic: Increase the amount of garlic for a stronger flavour. Roasted garlic can also be used for a milder, sweeter taste.
Nut Butter: Instead of tahini, experiment with almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nuttier flavour.
Spicy: Enhance the dip with red chilli flakes or cayenne powder for a spicy kick. Adjust the quantity to suit your preferred level of heat.

Kidney bean hummus in a bowl with a seed cracker.

Serving suggestions

As a spread: It’s the perfect thick, creamy sauce for Mung Bean Burgers, Spinach Feta Salmon Burgers, sandwiches, pita bread and toast.
As a dip: Use this hummus to dip tortilla chips, toasted pita or flatbread into it, fresh vegetables, flatbread, crackers, or pretzels.
In a dressing or sauce: Add oil and vinegar to this hummus to make a salad dressing or a sauce.
To pile: Top your hummus with charred vegetables like Charred Broccoli or Sumac Cauliflower for a light vegan meal!

How to Store

Kidney bean hummus is ideal for preparing ahead as its flavour enhances over time. Transfer the dip to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. For added freshness, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing the container.

Recipe FAQ

Can you make kidney bean hummus without tahini?

Yes! Although classic hummus typically includes tahini (sesame seed butter) along with chickpeas, you can create hummus by substituting tahini with your favourite nut butter.

Do you have to use canned kidney beans for hummus?

No, you don't have to use canned kidney beans for hummus. You can soak kidney beans and cook them until soft before making hummus, although it will take longer. Alternatively, try cooking kidney beans in the Instant Pot for a faster method.

Can I freeze the hummus?

Yes, you can freeze this hummus for later use. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Kidney bean hummus in a bowl with sesame seeds.

More dip recipes

If you try this kidney bean hummus recipe or have a question, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.