A Middle Eastern classic, this Hummus Bil Lahme combines silky, creamy hummus with perfectly spiced beef and toasted pine nuts for a dish that’s indulgent yet balanced. Perfect as an appetizer, side, or even a light meal, this recipe brings together layers of flavor and texture in every bite.
The original recipe is from an Instagram post by @ice.karimcooks, which you can find linked at the bottom of this page.
Ingredients
For the Hummus
- 1 can garbanzo beans (rinsed and drained)
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves (optional)
- 1/3 cup tahini
- Cold water (add 1 tablespoon at a time if needed)
For the Topping
- 6 oz top sirloin, cut into small cubes
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil)
- Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, to taste
- A handful of pine nuts
Instructions
For the Hummus
- Blend the Base: In a food processor, combine the garbanzo beans, tahini, lemon juice, garlic (if using), and a pinch of salt. Blitz until the mixture starts to come together.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too thick, add cold water 1 tablespoon at a time, blending after each addition, until you reach your desired creamy texture.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the hummus and adjust the salt and lemon levels to your preference.
- Set Aside: Spoon the hummus into a serving bowl and use the back of a spoon to create swirls or a well in the center for the topping.
For the Beef and Pine Nuts
- Toast the Pine Nuts: Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add the pine nuts. Stir constantly for 4–5 minutes until they’re golden brown and aromatic. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Beef: In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste.
- Combine with Pine Nuts: Add the toasted pine nuts back into the skillet with the beef during the last 2 minutes of cooking, stirring to combine.
Assembly
- Spoon the beef and pine nuts mixture over the hummus, making sure to spread it evenly across the surface.
- Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika, if desired.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Hummus Bil Lahme with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as part of a larger Middle Eastern-inspired spread. This dish is sure to impress, combining creamy, nutty, and savory elements into one unforgettable bite!
Let me know if you put your own spin on this recipe—I’d love to hear your ideas!