Hummus Ma Lahma: Hummus with Meat
Are you a meat lover with a craving for something truly extraordinary? Look no further than Hummus Ma Lahma, the Middle Eastern sensation that marries creamy hummus with delectable ground beef.
This hummus with meat, also known as hummus ma lahma, is like eating beef kebabs with hummus. Spiced ground beef with pine nuts over hummus served along with pita, tahini, and salad.
Hummus ma lahma is Arabic. The word ‘lahmeh’ means meat? And ‘bil’ means with. There, we learned a little bit of Arabic.
I always thought hummus was a vegetarian recipe until I started traveling to the Middle East. Oh, the many ways hummus is dressed up in this side of the world will have you eating hummus every day and never complaining. One of my favorites is hummus with kebabs, topped with tahini and wrapped in laffa bread.
Why is this the best recipe
- First and foremost, it’s the combination of smooth, creamy hummus and the mouthwatering flavors of ground beef that make this dish special. The hummus serves as the perfect canvas, allowing the rich and savory flavors of the meat to come alive with every bite. The contrast between the velvety hummus and the hearty meat creates a dynamic and satisfying texture.
- Another reason why this hummus ma lahma recipe stands out is the careful balance of flavors. The ground beef is seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices, such as cumin, paprika, and garlic, which infuse the meat with a tantalizing aroma and depth of taste. The spices not only enhance the natural flavors of the beef but also complement the earthy notes of the hummus, resulting in a harmonious and well-rounded dish.
- Moreover, fresh herbs and lemon juice add a refreshing and bright element to this hummus ma lahma. The herbs, like parsley and mint, provide a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the meat and hummus. Meanwhile, the tanginess from the lemon juice brings a zesty kick to the overall flavor profile, adding a delightful tang that keeps you coming back for more.
- Furthermore, what sets this recipe apart is the attention to detail in each component. From the silky smooth hummus made from scratch to the perfectly seasoned and browned ground beef, every element is carefully crafted. The hummus uses high-quality ingredients, ensuring a creamy and luxurious texture that elevates the entire dish. The ground beef is cooked until golden brown, developing a rich depth of flavor that complements the hummus beautifully.
Ingredients and substitutes
- Chickpeas: The foundation of any great hummus, using high-quality chickpeas is essential. Opt for dried chickpeas if possible, as they yield a creamier and more flavorful hummus than canned ones. If you need more time, canned chickpeas can be a convenient substitute.
- Tahini: This sesame seed paste adds richness and creaminess to the hummus. Look for a high-quality tahini from roasted sesame seeds for the best results. If you can’t find tahini, substitute it with natural peanut butter or almond butter for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and tanginess to the hummus. It helps balance the tahini’s richness and complements the meat’s savory flavors. If you’re out of lemons, you can substitute them with an equal amount of white wine or apple cider vinegar.
- Garlic: A staple in hummus, garlic adds a zesty kick and depth of flavor. Use fresh garlic cloves for the best taste, but garlic powder can be a suitable substitute if you’re in a pinch.
- Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil not only enhances the flavor of the hummus but also adds a smooth and luscious texture. Look for a good-quality olive oil with a fruity and robust flavor. You can substitute with a light-tasting vegetable oil if you prefer a milder taste.
- Ground beef: For meat lovers, choosing high-quality ground beef is essential for achieving a rich and flavorful topping. Opt for lean ground beef with a higher fat content for added juiciness. If you prefer a different protein, you can substitute ground beef with lamb, chicken, or turkey.
Step-by-step: hummus with meat
Ground beef
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until the onions are translucent.
- Add the ground beef and sauté until the beef is no longer pink, making sure to break the meat apart so we don’t have any big lumps.
Pro tip – keep the heat on medium-high so excess moisture will evaporate from the ground beef. - Then, add the spices (ground ginger, cumin, and paprika). Season with salt and pepper, and add the chopped parsley and lemon juice.
- Cook until all the water has evaporated. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat and keep warm.
Hummus
- Drain the chickpeas from the can and reserve some of the liquid for the hummus.
Pro tip – This recipe requires cooked chickpeas. If you don’t have canned chickpeas, follow the other method for making hummus from scratch below. - In a food processor, add garlic, chickpeas, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse for 30 seconds to a minute.
Pro tip – If necessary, add 1/4 cup of the reserved liquid from the chickpeas to blend smoothly. BUT do not add too much liquid just yet, as we still need to add the oil and tahini. - Next, add the tahini and olive oil. Blend for two full minutes. If necessary, add a tablespoon or more of the reserved chickpea liquid.
Pro tip – The olive oil emulsifiers make the hummus light and creamy, similar to whipping mayonnaise. - Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as necessary.
Serving hummus
- You can make one large platter or a few individual servings, as I have done in the video.
- In a shallow plate, put a spoonful of hummus. Use the back of the spoon to spread the hummus on the plate and create a swirl.
- Spoon the ground beef carefully, leaving some space in the center for the tahini or olive oil. Add some tahini sauce in the center and drizzle some olive oil on top.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Enjoy!
Delicious sides with hummus
- Baba ganoush or Lebanese eggplant salad
- Avocado salad, beet salad, or chickpea salad
- Shawarma chicken, Ground beef kebabs,
- Best crispy falafel recipe
Frequently asked questions
How long will this hummus keep?
Homemade hummus will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. It is best to store it well wrapped, making sure the cling wrap touches the surface to prevent a skin. The ground beef will keep in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
Can I use store-bought hummus for this dish?
Absolutely! While homemade hummus offers a fresh and unique flavor, using store-bought hummus is perfectly acceptable. Look for a high-quality brand that aligns with your taste preferences, whether you prefer a classic tahini-based hummus or a flavored variation like roasted red pepper or garlic.
What type of ground beef works best for hummus ma lahma?
When it comes to ground beef for hummus ma lahma, you’ll want to opt for a leaner variety, such as ground sirloin or ground chuck. These cuts offer a good balance of fat and flavor without being overly greasy. Avoid using ground beef with a high fat content, as it can make the dish too heavy.
Can I make hummus ma lahma in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, making hummus ma lahma in advance can actually enhance the flavors. You can prepare the hummus and the ground beef mixture a day or two ahead of time and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the ground beef and assemble the dish with a dollop of fresh hummus.
Can I make hummus ma lahma vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, absolutely! If you’d like to make a vegetarian or vegan version of hummus ma lahma, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative like crumbled tofu, tempeh, or cooked lentils. Season the substitute with similar spices to mimic the flavors of the meat, and you’ll still have a delicious and satisfying dish.
Hummus with Meat
This hummus with meat, called hummus ma lahma, is like eating beef kebabs with hummus. It consists of spiced ground beef with pine nuts over hummus, served with pita, tahini, and salad.
Video
Ingredients
Meat – Ground beef
- 1 lb (450 g) Ground beef lean
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- ½ cup Chopped onions
- 1 small Garlic sliced
- 1 tsp Ground ginger
- 1 tsp Ground Cumin
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika hot or sweet
- ½ cup Chopped parsley
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- ½ tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Pepper
Authentic hummus
- 1½ cups (246 g) Chickpeas (1 x 15 oz can)
- ¼ cup (¼ cup) Reserved liquid from the chickpeas
- 3 tbsp Tahini paste
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 2 tbsp Lemon juice
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp White pepper
- 4 tbsp (0.25 cups) Olive oil
For Garnish (optional)
- ¼ cup (60 g) Tahini sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (optional)
- 1 tbsp Chopped parsley
Method
Ground beef
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until the onions are translucent.
- Add the ground beef and sauté until it is no longer pink, making sure to break the meat apart so we don't have any big lumps. Pro tip – Keep the heat on medium-high so excess moisture will evaporate from the ground beef.
- Then, add the spices (ground ginger, cumin, and paprika). Season with salt and pepper. Add the chopped parsley and lemon juice.
- Cook until all the water has evaporated. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat and keep warm.
Hummus
- Drain the can of chickpeas and reserve some liquid to use in the hummus. Pro tip – This recipe requires cooked chickpeas. If you don't have canned chickpeas, follow the other method for making hummus from scratch below.
- In a food processor, add garlic, chickpeas, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse for 30 seconds to a minute.Pro tip – If necessary, add 1/4 cup of the reserved liquid from the chickpeas to blend smooth. However, do not add too much liquid just yet, as we still need to add the oil and tahini.
- Next, add the tahini and olive oil. Blend for two full minutes. If necessary, add a tablespoon or more of the reserved chickpea liquid.Pro tip – The olive oil emulsifies make the hummus light and creamy, similar to whipping mayonnaise.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as necessary.
Serving hummus
- You can make one large platter or a few individual servings, as I have done in the video.
- In a shallow plate, put a spoonful of hummus. Use the back of the spoon to spread the hummus on the plate and create a swirl.
- Spoon the ground beef carefully, leaving some space in the center for the tahini or olive oil. Add some tahini sauce in the center and drizzle some olive oil on top.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parley.
- Enjoy!
Notes
- First and foremost, the quality of ingredients plays a crucial role in the final outcome. Opt for fresh and high-quality meat, as well as chickpeas and tahini that are of excellent quality. Remember, the better the ingredients, the better the flavor.
- When it comes to cooking the meat, take your time and be patient. Slowly simmering the meat allows it to become tender and infuse with the flavorful spices. Stir occasionally to prevent the meat from sticking and ensure even cooking. And don’t forget to taste along the way! Adjust the seasoning to your preference, adding a pinch more salt or a dash of spice if needed.
- Another tip for success is to let the meat rest before assembling your hummus ma lahma. Allowing it to cool slightly prevents the meat from becoming too hot to handle and enhances the flavors as they meld together. Plus, it gives you a moment to appreciate the tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen.
- When it’s time to assemble, be generous with the hummus. Spread it onto a platter with care, creating an even layer that acts as a delicious base for the meat. Spoon the meat on top, ensuring an equal distribution across the hummus. This way, every bite will be a harmonious blend of creamy hummus and savory meat.
- Finally, remember that this recipe is meant to be a starting point for your culinary adventure. Feel free to experiment and add your personal touch. Whether it’s a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs, a drizzle of tangy sauce, or a handful of crunchy nuts, these creative variations will elevate your hummus ma lahma to new heights.
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it is Palestinian ??
Such great flavours and lovely with flatbreads or pitta breads.
Thanks, Beth.Absolutely
I love that this is made in 20mins! The perfect quick and delicious dinner.
Thank you, Chris
Love that this recipe turns hummus into a meal instead of an appetizer or snack!
Yes, it sure is a meal for us
This sounds delicious and perfect for putting in some pita breads for a weeknight meal! Definitely giving it a try.
Absolutely, Bintu. I hope you try it
This is really good. I could scoop it directly into my mouth. No pita necessary. Thanks for the recipe.
Ha… that would be one way to enjoy it.