Hummus Bowl with Spiced Beef

Hummus bowl with spiced beef became my quick fix one evening when I was craving something warm and comforting yet still packed with flavor and texture. I had a tub of homemade hummus and some ground beef in the fridge and I just went for it and seasoned the beef with spices and spooned it hot over the creamy hummus and the contrast was perfect rich and savory with pops of crunch from pine nuts and a swirl of olive oil tying it all together.

Ever since that first bowl and I’ve turned to this dish when I need something fast and satisfying and still a little special and whether I serve it with warm pita or fresh veggies or even just a spoon and it never fails to feel like the perfect blend of Middle Eastern flavors and cozy weeknight ease.

Ingredients:

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Ground beef – The savory star that brings richness and texture.
• Hummus – Creamy and nutty, it’s the cool contrast to the spiced beef.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the beef.
• Garlic – Enhances the beef with warm, bold aroma.
• Olive oil – Used for cooking and drizzling for added richness.
• Pine nuts – Add a buttery crunch and beautiful garnish.
• Paprika – Brings smoky color and mild warmth.
• Cumin – Adds earthy spice to the beef.
• Salt and pepper – Brings all the flavors together.
• Fresh parsley – For a burst of freshness and color on top.

Tools You’ll Need

• Skillet or pan – I use this to cook the spiced beef mixture until browned and flavorful.
• Spatula or spoon – Helps break down the beef and stir in the spices.
• Serving bowl or plate – A wide bowl is best to spread the hummus and top it with beef.
• Knife and cutting board – For dicing onions and chopping fresh parsley.
• Small pan – For lightly toasting the pine nuts until golden.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

I start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. I sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and soft, then I add the ground beef, breaking it up with my spoon.

Step 2: Season the Meat

Once the beef begins to brown, I stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. I cook it until fully browned and slightly crispy on the edges, which adds so much flavor.

Step 3: Toast the Pine Nuts

In a separate dry pan, I toast the pine nuts over medium-low heat for just a few minutes until golden and fragrant, shaking the pan to keep them from burning.

Step 4: Plate the Hummus

I spread a generous amount of hummus in a wide bowl using the back of a spoon to create a swirl that will catch the oil and beef juices.

Step 5: Top with Beef and Garnish

I spoon the hot spiced beef mixture over the hummus, then drizzle olive oil over everything. I scatter the toasted pine nuts and chopped parsley on top and finish with a sprinkle of paprika.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

I serve it warm with fresh pita bread, cucumber slices, or simply with a spoon – it’s that good.

Tips

For extra richness, I swirl a little tahini into the hummus before topping.

You can swap ground beef with ground lamb or turkey depending on your taste.

Want it spicy? Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne to the beef.

This makes a great make-ahead meal just warm the beef and serve over cold hummus.

Ways to Serve

With warm pita bread for scooping.

As a centerpiece on a mezze platter.

Topped with pickled onions or cucumbers for contrast.

With a side of tabbouleh or couscous for a fuller meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought hummus for this recipe?

Absolutely! I do it all the time when I’m short on time just choose a good-quality hummus.

Can I make the spiced beef ahead of time?

Yes. I often make a batch and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat and serve over fresh hummus.

Can I use another protein?

Definitely. Ground lamb or turkey works well, or even a vegan meat alternative if you’d like to keep it plant-based.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this hummus bowl with spiced beef a try! It’s simple, flavorful, and always hits the spot. I’d love to hear how you enjoyed it or what fun twists you added to make it your own.

Happy Cooking!

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