This savory chickpea spread is my own delicious creation — a warm, creamy blend of chickpeas, leeks, scallions, and a surprise kick from Szechuan peppercorns. It’s kind of like hummus, but with a twist that makes it feel a little fancier (and a lot more fun). Simmering the veggies in chicken broth adds depth, while tahini and lemon juice keep it bright and silky. I love serving it with warm pita or slathered onto toast, but honestly, it’s good enough to eat by the spoonful.
Savory Chickpea Spread with Leeks and Scallions
Serves about 6 to 8 people as an appetizer
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 scallions (white and green parts), chopped
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped leek
- About 2 cups chicken broth, for cooking vegetables
- 2–3 tbsp chicken broth (reserved from cooking)
- 2 tbsp tahini (sesame paste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (or more, to taste)
- 1 small garlic clove (raw or roasted, optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Pinch of smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes or Szechuan Peppercorns (optional, for garnish)
- Swirl of chilli oil on top for extra flavour and decoration
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, simmer scallions, onion, and leek in chicken broth until tender (about 10–15 minutes). Reserve 2–3 tablespoons of the broth for blending.
- Add chickpeas, the cooked vegetables, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic (if using) to a food processor.
- Blend until smooth, adding the reserved chicken broth a tablespoon at a time until the mixture reaches your desired creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper. Adjust lemon juice or tahini to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Drizzle with chilli oil and sprinkle with paprika, cumin, chili flakes or Szechuan Peppercorns for garnish.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve warm with pita, toasted sourdough, or fresh vegetables. Also great as a spread in wraps or sandwiches.
Making this creamy chickpea spread is easy and incredibly rewarding. The leeks, scallions, and onions are gently simmered in flavorful chicken broth, creating a rich and savory base that blends perfectly with protein-packed chickpeas, tahini, fresh lemon juice, and smooth olive oil. This healthy, high-protein dip is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a versatile option for any diet. The mixture is blended until silky smooth, with just enough reserved broth added to achieve the perfect creamy texture. Serve this warm Mediterranean-inspired spread with pita, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables for a delicious, nutritious appetizer or snack.
What sets this recipe apart is the bold addition of Szechuan peppercorns, which are sprinkled on top of the spread just before serving. Unlike traditional black pepper, Szechuan peppercorns add a unique, tingling heat and a subtle citrusy flavor that excites the palate without overpowering it. This slight buzzing sensation creates a memorable, flavorful experience, making the spread not only delicious but also intriguing. Adding these peppercorns as a garnish elevates the dish, delivering an extra layer of spice and interest that keeps everyone coming back for more.
For a beautiful and tasty finishing touch, try adding a few whole chickpeas on top of the spread along with a drizzle of chili oil and a sprinkle of Szechuan peppercorns. The whole chickpeas add a nice pop of texture and a visual cue of the main ingredient, while the chili oil brings a vibrant heat that perfectly complements the peppercorns’ unique tingling spice. Together, they create an inviting, colorful presentation that’s sure to impress and elevate every bite.
This flavorful chickpea spread, often known as a creative twist on classic hummus, offers a delicious and healthy alternative packed with rich, savory ingredients and exciting textures. Perfect as a protein-packed appetizer, gluten-free dip, or Mediterranean-inspired snack, it combines the creamy goodness of chickpeas and tahini with the unique, tingling heat of Szechuan peppercorns. Whether served warm with pita, toasted bread, or fresh veggies, this vibrant, easy-to-make spread is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection and a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.