Bright, bold, and layered with flavor, Thai Peanut Hummus is not your average dip. With its lush, velvety texture and a fusion of Southeast Asian flair, this dish brings together the heartiness of chickpeas with the richness of peanut butter and the zing of fresh lime. Aromatic mint leaves and a subtle heat from cayenne pepper add depth to every bite, making it a standout on any appetizer table. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply craving a snack that breaks from the ordinary, this recipe delivers something both familiar and thrillingly unique.

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Ingredients Breakdown

Each component of this hummus contributes to its vibrant character and complexity. The base of chickpeas provides a creamy, protein-packed canvas, ideal for absorbing other flavors. All-natural, unsalted peanut butter lends a silky richness with a nutty undertone that nods to traditional Thai cuisine. Fresh lime juice brightens the profile, offering a sharp citrus tang that cuts through the creaminess, while the zest adds a subtle aromatic lift.
Torn mint leaves introduce a cooling note, balancing the earthy legumes and rich peanut butter. Garlic, bold and pungent, grounds the flavor with a savory backbone. Cayenne pepper contributes a whisper of heat that lingers without overpowering. Sea salt enhances all the flavors, tying them together cohesively. Finally, a drizzle of olive oil and garnishes like chopped peanuts and extra mint leaves add a final flourish of texture and color.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Start by assembling all your ingredients, ensuring the chickpeas are well-rinsed and drained to remove excess sodium and improve flavor absorption. Measure your water, lime juice, and peanut butter accurately for balance. Tear the mint leaves by hand to release their oils, and roughly chop the garlic to make blending easier.

In a food processor, combine chickpeas, peanut butter, torn mint, garlic, lime zest, lime juice, filtered water, salt, and cayenne pepper. Blend on high until the mixture transforms into a smooth, creamy consistency. You may need to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides and ensure everything is well incorporated.

If the texture feels overly thick or dense, slowly add a splash more filtered water—just a tablespoon at a time—until it becomes soft and spreadable without losing its integrity. The goal is a texture that clings to a vegetable stick without being stiff.

Transfer the finished hummus to a serving bowl. For visual appeal and added flavor, drizzle a little olive oil over the top and sprinkle with roasted chopped peanuts and finely minced mint leaves. These garnishes elevate the presentation and offer an enticing contrast of textures.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

How to balance the heat: adjusting cayenne pepper to taste
Start conservatively and taste as you go. Cayenne builds slowly—add a pinch at a time to avoid overwhelming the delicate balance of flavors.

Tips for achieving extra creaminess without overpowering the flavor
Blending for longer and adding small amounts of water or even a touch of olive oil can help smooth the texture. Don’t overload with peanut butter—it’s rich and can easily dominate if overused.

Best types of peanut butter to use
Opt for all-natural, unsalted peanut butter with no added sugar or stabilizers. A runnier consistency blends more easily and offers a more authentic flavor.

How to prevent the hummus from drying out in the fridge
Store in an airtight container and press a piece of parchment paper against the surface before sealing. A light drizzle of olive oil over the top before storage also helps lock in moisture.

Can I make this hummus without a food processor?
A high-speed blender can be used as an alternative. For a more rustic texture, mash by hand with a fork or potato masher, though the final result won’t be as smooth.

How long does this hummus last in the fridge?
Stored properly, it keeps fresh for up to two weeks. Stir before serving if it begins to separate.

Can I use canned lime juice instead of fresh?
Fresh juice is highly recommended for its vibrant acidity and aroma. Bottled juice can taste flat and metallic.

What’s the best way to make it less spicy?
Simply omit or reduce the cayenne pepper. You can also add a bit more lime juice or mint to mellow the spice.

Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes, though the texture may change slightly after thawing. Freeze in small, airtight containers and stir well after defrosting.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Crunchy, colorful vegetables are perfect companions—think slender carrot sticks, cucumber rounds, and crisp radish wedges. These not only provide a refreshing contrast in texture but also enhance the visual appeal of your serving board.

For a heartier option, offer pita chips, sesame crackers, or rice crisps to add a satisfying crunch and a neutral base that lets the hummus shine. You can also spread it over warm naan or artisan bread for a more substantial snack.

Use this hummus creatively in wraps and sandwiches, or dollop it into lettuce cups with shredded carrots, cabbage, and tofu for a light Thai-inspired lunch. It also pairs beautifully with other small plates—think lemongrass skewers, coconut rice bites, or spring rolls—for a stunning appetizer spread.

Creative Variations

For a fresh herbaceous twist, swap out the mint for Thai basil or cilantro—each brings a different layer of complexity. A drizzle of toasted sesame oil or a splash of soy sauce deepens the umami and leans into savory territory.

If you’re craving more heat, stir in chili flakes or a ribbon of sriracha to amplify the spice. Want it even creamier? Add a small amount of coconut milk during blending. This variation brings a subtle sweetness and a velvety finish that feels almost decadent.

Experiment freely—this recipe is a flexible canvas that welcomes bold accents and personal flair.

Thai Peanut Hummus reimagines the familiar dip into something playful, layered, and unforgettable. With its creamy texture, vibrant citrus notes, and a whisper of spice, it’s more than just a snack—it’s a conversation starter. Whether plated as an appetizer centerpiece or tucked into a wrap, it brings flair and flavor to every bite.

Ingredients

1/4 cup filtered water
1/4 cup all-natural unsalted peanut butter One
15-ounce can low-sodium chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from approximately 2–3 limes) Zest from 1 lime
1/4 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves, torn by hand
2 small garlic cloves, roughly chopped
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or adjust to taste
Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling (optional)
Chopped roasted peanuts and finely minced mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Fresh vegetable sticks for serving: carrots, cucumbers, radishes

Instructions

Place the chickpeas, peanut butter, torn mint leaves, garlic, lime zest, freshly squeezed lime juice, filtered water, sea salt, and cayenne pepper into a food processor. Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes creamy and well combined. If the consistency appears too thick, gradually add a splash more water until smooth and spreadable.

Spoon the hummus into a serving bowl. For added flavor and presentation, drizzle with olive oil if desired, and sprinkle with chopped peanuts and fresh mint. Serve alongside crisp crudités such as sliced carrots, cucumber rounds, and radish wedges. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.