A luxurious Levantine twist on classic hummus, this dish features creamy chickpea purée topped with warmly spiced ground beef, golden pine nuts, and fresh parsley. Served with fluffy pita, it’s a perfect appetizer or mezze to share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together the creamy richness of traditional hummus with the savory depth of spiced ground meat and the crunch of toasted pine nuts. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and ideal for sharing. Whether served as part of a mezze spread or as a standalone starter, it offers a harmonious balance of textures and tastes that elevate a humble chickpea dip into something truly special.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the hummus:

• 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2–4 tablespoons water

For the beef topping:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

To serve:

• Warm pita bread
• Optional: plain yogurt with a drizzle of olive oil

Directions

1. To make the hummus, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, olive oil, and salt in a food processor.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water gradually to reach the desired consistency. Set aside.
3. For the beef topping, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
5. Stir in the ground beef, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
6. Add the toasted pine nuts and stir to combine.
7. Spread the prepared hummus onto a serving plate, using the back of a spoon to create a well in the center.
8. Spoon the warm beef mixture into the center.
9. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
10. Serve immediately with warm pita bread and a side of yogurt, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people as an appetizer or part of a mezze platter.
Preparation time is about 25 minutes, with no baking or resting required.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat topping with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mixture of both.
• Spicy Twist: Add Aleppo pepper, chili flakes, or a touch of harissa to the beef for added heat.
• Different Proteins: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or lamb for a lighter variation.
• Extra Garnish: Add a sprinkle of sumac, pomegranate seeds, or caramelized onions for a unique finish.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the beef topping separately in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Stir the hummus before serving and bring to room temperature for best flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the hummus in advance?

Yes, the hummus can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What kind of meat is best for this recipe?

Ground beef or lamb are traditional, but ground chicken or turkey can be used for a lighter version.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them in advance, which will increase the preparation time.

Is this dish served warm or cold?

The hummus is typically room temperature or slightly chilled, while the beef topping should be served warm.

Can I make this completely vegetarian?

Absolutely. You can substitute the beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative.

What’s the best type of tahini to use?

Look for smooth, runny tahini made from 100% sesame seeds with no additives. Stir well before using.

How do I toast pine nuts?

Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat, shaking frequently, until golden brown. Be careful—they burn quickly.

Can I use pre-made hummus?

Yes, store-bought hummus works if you’re short on time, though homemade provides the best flavor and texture.

What can I serve this dish with?

Warm pita bread is traditional, but it also pairs well with fresh vegetables, lavash, or flatbread.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended, as hummus tends to separate and the texture of the beef can become grainy when thawed.

Conclusion

Hummus with Spiced Ground Beef and Pine Nuts is a flavorful and visually striking appetizer that elevates the beloved chickpea spread with aromatic meat and toasted nuts. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a Middle Eastern-inspired meal, this dish is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.

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