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Homemade Chickpea Dip with Toasted Cumin and Pomegranate photo

Chickpea Dip with Toasted Cumin and Pomegranate

This Chickpea Dip is a crowd-pleaser! With toasted cumin and vibrant pomegranate seeds, it's perfect for any gathering or casual snack.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 2 medium garlic cloves peeled and roughly chopped
  • 2 medium lemons juiced
  • 30 ounces canned chickpeas rinsed and drained
  • ½ cup fruity extra virgin olive oil plus more for drizzling
  • ½ cup water
  • ½ cup pomegranate seeds
  • to serve pita chips or baguette slices

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Food processor
  • Juicer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon and Spatula

Method
 

  1. Start by heating a small skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and toast them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and slightly darker in color. Be careful not to burn them! Once toasted, remove from heat and set aside.
  2. While the cumin is toasting, peel the garlic cloves and roughly chop them. This will help them blend more easily in the food processor.
  3. In a food processor, combine the rinsed and drained chickpeas, toasted cumin seeds, chopped garlic, sea salt, the juice of both lemons, and ½ cup of water. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If needed, you can add more water to achieve your desired consistency.
  4. With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the ½ cup of fruity extra virgin olive oil. Continue to blend until the dip is well combined and creamy.
  5. Using a spatula, gently fold in the fresh pomegranate seeds to add a burst of color and texture to the dip. Reserve a few seeds for garnishing later.
  6. Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning with additional sea salt or lemon juice if desired. Remember, the flavors will meld beautifully as the dip sits.
  7. Transfer the Chickpea Dip with Toasted Cumin and Pomegranate to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with reserved pomegranate seeds, and serve with pita chips or baguette slices. Enjoy this delicious dip with friends and family!

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • This dip can be made a day in advance; just allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
  • If the dip thickens in the fridge, stir in a little water or olive oil to reach your desired consistency.