Hummus Tehina with Crispy Mushrooms Recipe

Hummus Tehina with Crispy Mushrooms is a delicious and textured variation of traditional hummus, featuring a rich, creamy tahini-based hummus topped with crispy, flavorful mushrooms. The contrast between the smooth hummus and the crispy mushrooms adds a delightful twist to this Middle Eastern classic.

Ingredients:

For the Hummus Tehina:

• 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1/2 cup tahini (sesame paste)
• 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
• Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

For the Crispy Mushrooms:

• 8 oz mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or a mix), sliced
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for extra umami)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)

Instructions:

1. Make the Hummus Tehina:

• In a food processor, combine the cooked chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin (if using), salt, and olive oil. Process until smooth.
• Slowly add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired creamy consistency. Adjust the seasoning with more lemon juice or salt if needed.
• Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and set aside.

2. Prepare the Crispy Mushrooms:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer. Cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes to allow them to become crispy on one side.
• Stir the mushrooms, adding soy sauce (if using) and smoked paprika, and continue cooking until the mushrooms are crispy and golden brown. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Dish:

• Spoon the crispy mushrooms over the hummus.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of freshness.
• Serve with warm pita bread, flatbread, or fresh veggies like cucumbers and carrots for dipping.

Tips:

• Chickpeas: For extra smooth hummus, you can peel the chickpeas by rubbing them between your hands under cold water to remove the skins.
• Mushrooms: Use a mix of mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, and cremini for varied texture and flavor.
• Seasoning Variations: Add a dash of chili flakes to the mushrooms for a bit of heat, or sprinkle the hummus with za’atar or sumac for an added Middle Eastern flair.

Summary:

Hummus Tehina with Crispy Mushrooms is a flavorful and visually stunning dish that elevates traditional hummus by adding the savory, umami-packed crunch of crispy mushrooms. It’s perfect as a party appetizer, snack, or even a light meal when served with pita or veggies. The creamy tahini hummus combined with the texture of the mushrooms creates a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and exciting.