Creamy & Delicious Sweet Potato Hummus: Your New Favorite Healthy Dip Recipe
Prepare to fall in love with homemade sweet potato hummus – a truly irresistible dip that is wonderfully smooth, incredibly thick, and bursting with the harmonious flavors of sweet potato, tahini, and garlic. Far from your average snack, this vibrant, orange-hued creation is the perfect appetizer for any gathering, a delightful spread for sandwiches, or a wholesome dip for crackers, pita bread, and fresh vegetables. The subtle sweetness of the roasted sweet potato beautifully complements the earthy richness of tahini and the pungent kick of fresh garlic, all balanced by the creamy chickpeas. It’s a flavor combination that is both unique and utterly addictive, destined to become a staple in your kitchen.
Having a selection of homemade dips in your fridge makes daytime snacking or after-school munchies a breeze! If you’re on the hunt for more healthy snack recipes that are both easy and delicious, be sure to explore my homemade pico de gallo, the strikingly colorful beet hummus, and the deeply savory caramelized onion dip. Each offers a unique flavor profile to keep your snack game strong and exciting!
Why This Sweet Potato Hummus Recipe is a Must-Try
- Effortlessly Simple Hummus Recipe: Forget complicated steps or a long list of obscure ingredients. This sweet potato hummus comes together surprisingly quickly and effortlessly, requiring just a few common pantry staples. The most “active” part is baking the sweet potatoes, which can even be done in advance, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
- A Healthy, Nutrient-Packed, and Unique Snack: As a parent or health-conscious individual, finding nutritious yet appealing snacks can be a challenge. This sweet potato hummus is a fantastic solution! Instead of reaching for highly processed options, having a batch of this wholesome hummus in the fridge offers a delicious and distinctly different choice. Sweet potatoes are renowned for being rich in vitamins (especially A and C), fiber, and antioxidants, while chickpeas provide plant-based protein and more fiber, making this dip incredibly satiating and beneficial for your health. It’s an exciting way to sneak extra vegetables into your diet, pleasing even the pickiest eaters.
- Unforgettably Smooth and Flavorful: The combination of sweet potatoes, tahini, and garlic creates a truly exquisite flavor profile and texture. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes marries beautifully with the nutty, slightly bitter notes of tahini and the aromatic punch of garlic. This creates a deeply satisfying, well-rounded taste that stands out from traditional hummus. The creamy texture achieved by blending the ingredients in a food processor is luxurious and delightful, making every bite a pleasure. It’s a fun, vibrant, and incredibly tasty twist on classic hummus that will quickly become a household favorite.
Essential Ingredient Notes for Perfect Sweet Potato Hummus
Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to making the best sweet potato hummus. Here’s a deeper look:
- Sweet Potatoes: You’ll need approximately 1.5 lbs of sweet potatoes, which typically translates to 1 large or 2 medium sweet potatoes. The weight can vary, so aim for that total. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and caramelization, which is crucial for the depth of flavor in this hummus. While boiling is an option, roasting truly enhances the sweet potato’s inherent qualities, making the dip more complex and delicious.
- Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans): A single 15.5 oz can of chickpeas forms the classic creamy base of our hummus. Always remember to drain and thoroughly rinse the chickpeas before adding them to your food processor. This step helps remove excess sodium and any canning liquid, ensuring a cleaner, fresher taste.
- Tahini: This rich, sesame seed paste is non-negotiable for authentic hummus flavor and texture. Unlike most nut butters, tahini isn’t sweet; it offers a distinctive earthy, nutty, and slightly bitter taste. This unique profile is precisely what makes it pair so incredibly well with the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, creating a balanced and complex flavor that defines this dip.
- Olive Oil: More than just a lubricant, olive oil contributes to the luxurious smoothness and richness of the hummus. You can adjust the amount based on your desired consistency – add more for a thinner, lighter dip, or stick to the recommended amount for a thicker, more traditional texture. High-quality extra virgin olive oil can also add a subtle fruity or peppery note to the finished product.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: This is a crucial brightener. Lemon juice cuts through the richness of the tahini and sweet potato, adding a zesty tang that lifts all the other flavors and prevents the hummus from tasting too heavy. Always opt for fresh lemon juice for the best results.
- Garlic: A small garlic clove provides an aromatic depth that is characteristic of hummus. Be mindful of the size; a very large clove can easily overpower the delicate sweet potato flavor. If you’re a garlic lover, you can certainly add a bit more, but start small and taste as you go.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper: These seasonings are vital for enhancing and balancing all the flavors. Adjust to your personal preference, adding more or less as needed to bring out the best in your hummus.
Crafting Your Sweet Potato Hummus: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making this incredible dip is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:
- Perfectly Bake the Sweet Potatoes. The foundation of exceptional sweet potato hummus lies in perfectly cooked sweet potatoes. Wrap your sweet potatoes in foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake them at 425°F (220°C) for 40-60 minutes, or until they are incredibly soft and fork-tender. This high heat helps to caramelize their natural sugars, intensifying their flavor. Once baked, carefully unwrap the foil and allow the potatoes to cool completely. Cooling is important because it prevents the hummus from becoming too watery and allows the flavors to meld properly. For more detailed instructions on baking sweet potatoes, you can refer to my baked sweet potatoes recipe.
- Combine All Ingredients in a Food Processor. Once the sweet potatoes have cooled enough to handle comfortably, carefully scoop their soft, sweet flesh into the bowl of your food processor. Next, add the rinsed and drained chickpeas, fresh lemon juice, tahini, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are ready for a smooth blend.
- Blend Until Smooth. With all the core ingredients in the food processor, secure the lid and pulse the mixture until it begins to break down and become smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly incorporated. Continue processing until you achieve a wonderfully creamy and uniform consistency.
- Achieve Your Desired Consistency with Olive Oil. While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil through the feed tube. The amount of olive oil you add will determine the final thickness of your hummus. For a rich, thick hummus, stick to the 1 1/2 tablespoons recommended in the recipe card. If you prefer a thinner, silkier dip, gradually add additional olive oil, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as you go.
- Serve and Enjoy! Once your sweet potato hummus is perfectly smooth and seasoned, spoon it onto a beautiful serving plate or into a large bowl. Drizzle with a little extra olive oil and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs if desired. This versatile dip pairs wonderfully with an array of accompaniments, including crispy crackers, warm pita bread, fluffy homemade naan, or a colorful assortment of fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Hummus
To ensure your sweet potato hummus turns out perfectly every time, keep these valuable tips in mind:
Tahini Substitutions and Considerations: If you don’t have tahini on hand or prefer to omit it, you certainly can. However, it’s important to understand that tahini is a cornerstone of traditional hummus flavor and texture. Without it, the dip will taste different, lacking that signature earthy, nutty depth. If you choose to skip it, you may need to increase the olive oil slightly to achieve a comparable creamy consistency, as tahini also contributes to the hummus’s overall richness and fluidity. For a similar texture and a different flavor profile, you could experiment with a neutral-flavored nut butter like cashew butter, though the taste will naturally shift.
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Sweet Potato Hummus
The versatility of sweet potato hummus is truly remarkable! It’s not just for dipping. Here are countless ways to enjoy this delicious spread:
- Classic Dippers: Pita chips, warm pita bread, crunchy crackers, pretzel crisps, and even tortilla chips are all excellent choices.
- Fresh Veggies: A colorful array of crudités like carrot sticks, celery stalks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips (any color!), cherry tomatoes, snap peas, and radish slices.
- On Sandwiches & Wraps: Use it as a healthy and flavorful spread instead of mayonnaise or other condiments. It’s fantastic on turkey sandwiches, veggie wraps, or even grilled cheese for an unexpected twist.
- Breakfast & Brunch: Spread it on toasted bagels, English muffins, or avocado toast. Top with a poached egg for a protein-packed start to your day.
- With Meals: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or falafel. Dollop it onto grain bowls or salads for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
- Unique Pairings: Try it with quesadillas, as a base for flatbread pizzas, or even as a unique topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes.
Exciting Flavor Variations
Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize your sweet potato hummus to your liking!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or a finely minced jalapeño to the food processor for a touch of heat.
- Herbaceous Freshness: Stir in fresh chopped cilantro, parsley, chives, or even a bit of rosemary after blending.
- Smoky Notes: A tiny pinch of smoked paprika can add a wonderful depth and smoky aroma.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle with maple syrup or honey before serving for an extra layer of sweetness, or sprinkle with toasted nuts for crunch.
- Citrus Boost: Experiment with lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrusy zing.
Troubleshooting Common Hummus Issues
- My Hummus is Too Thick: Easily remedied! Simply add an additional tablespoon of olive oil or a splash of cold water, one at a time, while the food processor is running, until you reach your desired consistency.
- My Hummus is Too Thin: This can happen if too much liquid (olive oil or water) was added. To thicken it, you can try adding a few more roasted sweet potato chunks (if you have any leftover) or even a small handful of extra chickpeas. Pulse again until smooth.
- My Hummus Isn’t Smooth Enough: The key to silky-smooth hummus is patiently blending. Ensure your chickpeas are thoroughly cooked and soft. You might also try removing the skins from the chickpeas after rinsing, although it’s not strictly necessary, it does contribute to a smoother texture. Continue processing for another minute or two, scraping down the sides often.
- My Hummus Tastes Bitter: This can sometimes be due to an overly strong tahini or too much garlic. To counteract bitterness, add a little more fresh lemon juice and a pinch of salt. A small amount of maple syrup or honey can also help balance out the flavors.
Storing and Freezing Your Sweet Potato Hummus
Proper storage ensures your delicious homemade hummus stays fresh and flavorful for longer.
For refrigeration, transfer the sweet potato hummus to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. When stored correctly, it will maintain its freshness and delicious taste for 1-2 weeks. This makes it an ideal make-ahead snack or party appetizer.
To freeze, scoop the hummus into an airtight, freezer-safe container. To help preserve its freshness and moisture, pour a very thin layer of olive oil over the surface of the hummus before sealing and placing it in the freezer. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, give it a good stir and enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. You might need to add a splash of olive oil or water and re-blend briefly to restore its original smooth consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Potato Hummus
While chickpeas are the traditional base for hummus, other beans can sometimes be substituted. For a different type of bean dip, you could consider black bean hummus or even white bean hummus. However, for this specific sweet potato hummus recipe, I strongly recommend sticking with chickpeas. Using black beans would dramatically alter the color and likely clash with the sweet potato flavor profile. Pinto beans could potentially work, but I haven’t tested this specific combination, so I can’t guarantee the flavor outcome. Chickpeas offer the ideal creamy texture and a neutral-enough base that perfectly highlights the sweet potato.
Tahini is a core ingredient that provides hummus with its distinctive nutty flavor and smooth texture. If you need a substitute, you have a few options: you can either omit it entirely, though this will significantly change the flavor profile. To compensate for the loss of creaminess, you might need to add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water. Alternatively, for a similar consistency, you could try a neutral-flavored nut butter like cashew butter or even almond butter. However, be aware that these will impart their own distinct flavors, altering the traditional hummus taste. If you experiment with nut butters, please share your results in the comments below – I’d love to hear how it turns out!
Absolutely, sweet potato hummus freezes beautifully! This makes it an excellent recipe for meal prepping or preparing in larger batches. To freeze, simply transfer the hummus into an airtight, freezer-safe container. For optimal freshness and to prevent freezer burn, pour a very thin layer of olive oil over the surface of the hummus before sealing the container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator, give it a good stir, and enjoy. You might want to re-blend it briefly with a tablespoon of water or olive oil to restore its smooth consistency.
If your sweet potato hummus turns out drier than desired, it usually indicates a need for more liquid or fat. The easiest solution is to gradually add additional olive oil and/or tahini, a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to blend in your food processor. The moisture and fat content from these ingredients are crucial for achieving that signature creamy, smooth texture. You can also add a small splash of cold water to reach your preferred consistency.
Tahini is a rich, creamy paste made from finely ground sesame seeds. It’s a fundamental ingredient in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, particularly in hummus. Tahini provides a distinctive nutty, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor that is crucial for the authentic taste and silky texture of hummus. It’s not sweet like other nut butters and contributes a unique depth that cannot be fully replicated by other ingredients.
Explore More Delicious Snack Recipes
If you’ve enjoyed making this sweet potato hummus, you’ll love discovering more easy and flavorful recipes to add to your snack repertoire. Here are some other fantastic options to inspire your culinary adventures:
- Irresistible Roasted Rosemary Cashews
- Elegant Cucumber Dill Baguette Sandwiches
- Crowd-Pleasing Pepperoni Pizza Dip
- Fun & Healthy Donut Apples for Kids and Adults!
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Review
Sweet Potato Hummus
Ingredients
- 2 sweet potatoes – about 1.5 lbs in weight (total)
- 1 15.5 oz can chickpeas – drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 small garlic clove – (See note #1)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil – add more if you want it less thick
Equipment
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food processor
Instructions
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Wrap the sweet potatoes in foil. Place on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 40-60 minutes or until soft and fork tender. This step is crucial for developing their rich, sweet flavor. Remove from the oven, carefully unwrap the foil and let the sweet potatoes cool completely. Once cool enough to handle, scrape the soft flesh into the bowl of a food processor.
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Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, fresh lemon juice, tahini, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper to the food processor with the sweet potato flesh. Pulse until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well combined. With the food processor running, slowly stream in the olive oil until your desired consistency is reached. (See note #2)
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Once perfectly smooth and seasoned to your liking, spoon the sweet potato hummus onto a serving plate or into a large bowl.
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Serve immediately with your favorite dippers such as crackers, warm pita bread, an assortment of fresh veggies, or use as a delicious spread.
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To store, transfer any leftover hummus to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for 1-2 weeks.
Notes
- Always use a smaller sized garlic clove to avoid overpowering the sweet potato flavor. If you love garlic, you can add a bit more, but start small!
- The recipe card suggests 1 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil for a thick hummus. If you prefer a thinner, silkier consistency, feel free to add more olive oil, a tablespoon at a time, until it meets your preference.
- While tahini is a key component for authentic flavor, you can make this recipe without it. However, please note that the taste and texture will be noticeably different, lacking the characteristic nutty depth.
- For optimal freshness, sweet potato hummus should always be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When properly stored, it will last for 1-2 weeks.
- To freeze, place the hummus in an airtight freezer-safe container. To help maintain moisture and prevent freezer burn, pour a very thin layer of olive oil over the surface before freezing. It can be stored for up to 4 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
- The nutritional information provided only includes the values for the sweet potato hummus itself, and does not account for any crackers, vegetables, or other sides you choose to serve alongside it.
Nutrition Information
This recipe was originally published on Dec. 2, 2019. It was republished on Dec. 6, 2021, to include additional information, enhanced SEO, and updated photos.