Harissa Hummus

If you love classic hummus but wish it had a little more personality, meet Harissa Hummus. If you like a unique hummus, you may also enjoy our Butternut Squash Hummus.

This ultra-creamy, smoky-spicy 10-minute dip brings together the richness of tahini, the heartiness of chickpeas, and the bold heat of harissa for a hummus that’s anything but boring. It’s smooth, luxurious, packed with flavor, and perfect for snacking, spreading, dipping, or adding a punch to your favorite meals. Once you make this, boring store-bought hummus won’t stand a chance.

Why You'll Love This Harissa Hummus

• Creamy, dreamy texture thanks to tahini, aquafaba, and ice cubes.
• Bold, smoky heat from harissa that wakes up your taste buds.
• Quick and easy. Made in minutes with pantry staples.
• Naturally vegan, oil-free, and dairy-free.
• Perfect for entertaining or healthy snacking.
• Adjustable heat level. Make it mild, medium, or “call the fire department” hot.

Health Benefits

• Chickpeas provide plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and minerals to support heart and digestive health.
• Tahini offers healthy fats, calcium, and antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and support stable energy.
• Harissa spices like chili, cumin, and coriander contain beneficial plant compounds that can help boost metabolism and add depth without unhealthy additives.
• No oil added in the base recipe, keeping it lighter than many traditional hummus recipes.

What You Need to Make Harissa Hummus

1. Chickpeas: The creamy, nutty foundation. They create the body of the hummus and bring that signature smooth texture and slightly earthy flavor.
2. Aquafaba: This is the liquid from the chickpea can. Instead of tossing it, we use it to create an extra light, whipped, luxurious hummus texture. It's the replacement for oil. We use this same method in our Oil-Free Hummus recipe.
3. Harissa Powder: The star ingredient! Harissa brings smoky mild heat, subtle sweetness, chili warmth, and complexity. We also use harissa powder in our Cashew Harissa Sauce.
4. Toppings (optional): fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

A full list of ingredients with exact amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Substitutions and Variations

• No harissa powder? Use harissa paste instead; start with 1 Tablespoon and adjust. Harissa paste typically has oil, so if you want oil-free, stick with harissa powder.
• Milder version: Use less harissa or skip the cayenne topping.
• Spicier version: Add more harissa, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce.
• Garlic lovers: Add two cloves instead of one.
• Citrusy twist: Add a pinch of lemon zest and an extra squeeze of lemon juice.

How to Make Harissa Hummus

Step 1

Add chickpeas, aquafaba, garlic, tahini, harissa powder, and optional salt to a food processor.

Step 2

Process until well combined. You may need to pause and scrape down the sides.

Step 3

Add ice cubes and continue processing until smooth, creamy, and fluffy. Transfer to a bowl, top with optional chopped herbs and a pinch of cayenne. Serve and enjoy!

Expert Tips For The Best Harissa Hummus

• Blend longer than you think. Patience makes it smoother.
• Taste and adjust. Add more salt, garlic, or harissa seasoning if needed.
• Don't skip the ice cubes for an extra creamy texture.
• Scrape down the processor bowl to make sure everything combines evenly.

Serving Suggestions

• Try this hummus dip with fresh veggies, Oven-Baked Tortilla Chips, or seeded crackers for a Daniel Fast snack or appetizer.
• Spread on a Breakfast Burrito or veggie wrap.
• Add as a topping for roasted veggies or on grain bowls.

Recipe FAQs

Harissa Hummus is what happens when comfort food gets bold and wakes up its flavor game. It’s creamy, satisfying, nourishing, and just spicy enough to keep things exciting. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting, or just craving a powerhouse snack, this hummus brings heat, heart, and serious flavor.

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