Pomegranate Hummus

Creamy pomegranate hummus made with chickpeas, tahini, and fresh pomegranate arils – an easy, flavorful dip perfect for entertaining, snack boards, and appetizers.

I’m not saying I’ve been eating this Pomegranate Hummus straight from the container with a pretzel while standing over the sink…
I’m just saying there’s evidence. It’s creamy, a little tangy, and topped with juicy pops of pomegranate that make it feel like hummus went on vacation and came back with better taste in jewelry.

It’s easy, it’s pretty, and it’s absolutely not going to last long in your fridge.

I have been a hummus fan since I was about…19 years old.

Before then, I had no idea this incredible stuff even existed. My very first bite was UNREAL. Where has this been my entire life? WHY has no one introduced this to me before? I was full of repetitive, yet truly unnecessary, questions while I inhaled this creamy delicious gift from the Heavens.

I was at a small, family owned place called Naji’s in Birmingham, and I quickly discovered that they nailed this, along with their popular pita bread, Tabbouleh and Baba Ganoush, after trying other Mediterranean restaurants’ versions around the area. Needless to say, I was quite the Naji’s fan from then on.

At that point, I decided to dig in my pockets and pay 10 dollars for some tahini and make my own hummus.

Yes, I’m complaining about the cost of tahini, but seriously it lasts for a long time unless your a huge tahini fan. So, my first batch of hummus was a chunky mess that just would not become smooth, and I could not get the taste right to save my life. After a few batches, I got close, but I did NOT get anywhere near close to the consistency I was trying so damn hard to achieve.

How Do You Make Smooth Pomegranate Hummus?

There was something I was missing, and I would continue to miss for a couple of years until I ran across an article that discussed peeling garbanzo beans.

That’s when it hit me – those little bastards need to be naked.

Once I started peeling them, my hummus game started getting better. The garbanzo bean skins, although edible and full of dietary fiber, make it difficult – no impossible – to get a super smooth, creamy hummus.

However, peeling them isn’t a big deal at all. If you’re using canned, drain and rinse them, put them in a pan of water and boil for about 5 minutes, drain and let them cool.

Once you start handling them, the skins fall right off.

If you’re one of those people that like to peel and pop, this will be your new jam. Except for the fact that there’s no popping here.

It almost becomes addictive, like peeling skin after a sunburn. (I know I’m not the only one.)

FAQ’s

What does pomegranate hummus taste like?
Pomegranate hummus is creamy and savory with a slightly sweet, tangy finish from fresh pomegranate arils. The balance of flavors makes it feel a little more elevated than traditional hummus.

Can I use pomegranate juice instead of fresh arils?
You can, but fresh pomegranate arils add both texture and bursts of sweetness. If using juice, start small to avoid thinning the hummus too much.

How long does homemade hummus last?
Homemade hummus will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days.

What do you serve with pomegranate hummus?
Serve it with pita bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. It’s also perfect as part of a mezze platter or snack board.

Can I make hummus without tahini?
Yes, but tahini adds richness and depth. You can substitute with Greek yogurt or a mild nut butter, though the flavor will change slightly.

Over the past few years, I’ve made many, many batches. I think one of the mistakes that some people make while making hummus is being afraid of lemon. You cannot be afraid of lemon here. As far as the consistency, it’s gonna be thick. Really thick.

You need to drizzle olive oil in towards the end while the food processor is going, and test it, then add more water, and oil, if needed. Just add a little at a time, then process.

You don’t necessarily have to use water as a thinner. Chicken stock would work, too, but keep in mind it may impact flavor.

Depending on your hummus, you can add liquid that will accent the flavor and thin it out.

With this pomegranate Hummus, I added pomegranate juice for flavor.

I wasn’t sure how it would taste, or how much pomegranate juice it would take to make the flavor enough to be impactful.

I chose pomegranate because, well, it’s in season, I adore it, and my hummus needed something different added to it. THIS is now my new favorite. It’s SO GOOD! You have to make it. I’ll be posting a tutorial video very soon about cutting a pomegranate and removing the arils.

**UPDATE**
I made the video! If you’ve never cut a pomegranate open before, this will help you.

I’ve made Black Bean Chipotle Hummus, Pineapple Serrano Hummus, Roasted Poblano and Corn Hummus, Sesame Wasabi Hummus – Can you tell I love hummus?

Chickpeas love other flavors; they’re so versatile. What’s your favorite hummus??

Here’s your printable –