Sauces & Condiments
This Lantana Black Bean Hummus copycat recipe delivers the exact smoky chipotle kick and creamy depth that made the original a cult favorite. The blend of black beans and roasted red peppers creates a rich, velvety texture while chipotle powder brings that signature smoky heat—just like the restaurant version.
I've perfected this over multiple batches to ensure the perfect balance of spice and creaminess every time.
The secret lies in proper blending technique and ingredient ratios. You'll need canned black beans, roasted red peppers, chipotle powder, and a touch of tahini for that authentic Lantana creaminess. While traditional hummus uses tahini, I've included a simple alternative using olive oil for those who prefer it.
The result is a dip that's smooth, flavorful, and packed with plant-based protein.
What you'll end up with is a velvety black bean dip with just the right amount of smoky chipotle heat—creamy enough to spread on sandwiches or pita, but with enough body to hold its shape for dipping.
The texture is silky smooth with subtle chunks from the black beans, while the chipotle adds that signature smoky depth that makes this copycat version indistinguishable from the original.
Serve with warm pita, fresh vegetables, or as a spread for sandwiches. This recipe makes about 2 cups, perfect for a snack spread or appetizer for 4-6 people.
The flavors develop slightly after blending, so let it sit for 10 minutes before serving to allow all the components to meld together perfectly.
Ingredients for lantana black bean hummus copycat
Nine simple ingredients for that iconic smoky, creamy hummus you crave from Lantana.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Canned Black Beans 🫘 | 1 ½ cups | Drained, rinsed, no salt added |
| Roasted Red Peppers 🍆 | ½ cup | Jarred, chopped, no liquid |
| Tahini 🥜 | ⅓ cup | Sesame paste, smooth texture |
| Extra-Virgin Olive Oil 🫒 | ⅓ cup | For oil alternative, high quality |
| Chipotle Powder 🌶️ | 1 tbsp | Smoked, not adobo sauce |
| Lemon Juice 🍋 | 2 tbsp | Freshly squeezed, bright flavor |
| Garlic Cloves 🧄 | 2 cloves | Fresh, peeled, minced |
| Ground Cumin 🌿 | ½ tsp | Toasted for deeper flavor |
| Sea Salt 🧂 | ½ tsp | Fine grain preferred |
| Water 💧 | ¼ cup | Adjust for blending consistency |
| Fresh Cilantro 🌿 | ¼ cup | Chopped, stems removed |
| Avocado Oil 🫒 | 1 tbsp | For drizzling, high smoke point |
The black beans are the base, so no-salt-added canned is key—you control the flavor. Trader Joe's and Costco have great no-salt brands, but any low-sodium works. Roasted red peppers? Muir Glen or Whole Foods jars are my go-to—they're consistent and have minimal additives. Chipotle powder is non-negotiable for that signature smoky heat. Penzeys or Goya are solid choices, but don't use adobo sauce—it's too wet and alters the texture. The tahini should be smooth, not chunky—Barney's or Albertsons brands are reliable.
No tahini? Olive oil plus a splash of lemon juice mimics the creaminess, though texture will be slightly lighter. Fresh cilantro missing? Dried cilantro or parsley at half the amount works, but you'll lose that bright freshness. Want it spicier? Add a pinch more chipotle powder or a dash of cayenne. The roasted red peppers can be fresh if you're feeling fancy—just roast them yourself for deeper flavor. For the garlic, peeled and minced ahead saves time, but raw works too. The water is just for blending consistency—add more if it's too thick.
This hummus keeps beautifully. Store in an airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve freshness for up to 5 days in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays—perfect portions for later. The flavors actually improve after blending, so let it sit 10 minutes before serving. I always make a double batch—one for dipping, one for sandwich spreads. The avocado oil drizzle at the end? Optional but worth it—adds richness and makes it look restaurant-worthy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Five-Ingredient Magic: That’s all it takes—no fancy prep, no stress. I just drain the black beans, toss in the jarred roasted red peppers (straight from the shelf), swirl in tahini, and hit it with a dash of chipotle powder. The blender does the rest while I’m still wiping my hands.
- Smoky-Spicy Kick: Between the smoldering chipotle and the deep, nutty tahini, this hummus has layers. It’s not just creamy—it’s got that slow-building heat that makes you want to dip everything twice. (Yes, even on a Tuesday night.)
- Game for Any Occasion: Spread it on toast for a quick brunch, pile it on tacos for game day, or let it sit in a bowl at your next potluck. It’s the kind of dish that works just as hard for lazy weeknights as it does for impressing guests—no one will guess it’s copycat.
- Leftovers That Last: I make a big batch on Sunday, and it’s still perfect by Thursday. The flavors deepen slightly over time, and the tahini keeps it from getting dry. Plus, it’s cheap—canned beans and a jar of peppers stretch my budget without sacrificing taste.
Step-by-step instructions for Lantana black bean hummus
Here's how to make this smoky, creamy hummus that tastes just like Lantana's famous version.
Blend the Base Ingredients Until Smooth
Start by draining and rinsing the 1.5 cups canned black beans thoroughly under cold water. This removes any excess starch that could make your hummus gummy. Add the beans to a high-powered blender along with the 0.5 cup roasted red peppers, 2 cloves minced garlic, 0.5 tsp ground cumin, 0.5 tsp sea salt, and 0.25 cup water.
Blend these ingredients on high for about 1 minute until completely smooth. You should hear a consistent humming sound with no chunks remaining. If you notice the mixture getting too thick during blending, add 1 tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches a pourable consistency. The goal is a velvety texture that coats the back of a spoon.
Add Tahini and Olive Oil for Creaminess
With the blender running on low speed, slowly drizzle in the 0.33 cup tahini and 0.33 cup extra-virgin olive oil. Tahini is thick, so add it gradually to prevent the motor from straining. The tahini will immediately start to emulsify with the bean mixture, creating that signature creamy texture.
Continue blending for another 30 seconds on high speed until everything is fully incorporated. You'll notice the color deepen to a rich, smoky brown. At this point, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed—you might want to add a pinch more salt or cumin to match your preference. The hummus should be thick but still spreadable, with a smooth, almost buttery consistency.
Incorporate the Smoky Chipotle Flavor
Transfer the blended mixture to a serving bowl. Now it's time to add the smoky kick: sprinkle in the 1 tbsp chipotle powder and 2 tbsp lemon juice. Using a spatula, gently fold these ingredients into the hummus until completely distributed. The chipotle powder will give it that authentic smoky depth, while the lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
For an extra touch, stir in the 0.25 cup chopped fresh cilantro. This adds freshness and a pop of color. Let the hummus rest for 5 minutes before serving—this allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly. The final texture should be smooth, creamy, and just thick enough to hold its shape when spread.
Finish with Avocado Oil and Garnish
Just before serving, drizzle the top with 1 tbsp avocado oil. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful sheen. Use the back of a spoon to lightly swirl the oil into the hummus, creating marbled patterns that look as good as they taste.
For presentation, sprinkle with an extra pinch of chipotle powder and a few cilantro leaves. Serve immediately with warm pita bread, veggie sticks, or as a dip for chips. The hummus will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, though it's best enjoyed fresh when the flavors are at their peak.
Pro Tips For Making Lantana Black Bean Hummus Copycat
- Drain and Rinse Beans: Dump those canned black beans into a colander and give them a quick cold-water rinse—even if they’re labeled “no salt added.” The starch clinging to them thickens the hummus like glue, and you don’t want that. I learned this the hard way when my first batch turned into a gluey paste instead of a creamy dip.
- Blend in Stages: Start with the beans, roasted red peppers, and tahini—blend until smooth, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending. Tahini and oil are stubborn; rushing it just creates a grainy mess. After burning three batches trying to speed this up, I finally accepted: patience here means the texture stays velvety.
- Toast the Chipotle: Lightly toast the chipotle powder in a dry pan over medium heat for 30 seconds—just until it smells smoky. This deepens the flavor without overpowering. I was skeptical until I tried it: the hummus now has that subtle, complex heat Lantana’s version does, not just a generic spice kick.
- Finish with Acid: Stir in a teaspoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar at the end—even if the recipe doesn’t say it. The tahini can taste bitter if left unchecked, and this balances it perfectly. I skip this when I’m lazy, but the dip is noticeably brighter when I don’t. Worth the 10 seconds.
Perfect pairings for lantana black bean hummus copycat
Crunchy Veggie Sticks
This hummus pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh vegetables that cut through its creamy richness. I recommend carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, and celery stalks—their natural sweetness and crunch contrast perfectly with the smoky chipotle flavor.
For extra fun, try jicama slices or radishes for a slightly peppery bite. Serve them at room temperature for the best texture. 🥕
Warm Pita Bread
Nothing beats warm, toasted pita bread for scooping up this hummus. I like to brush 100% whole wheat pita rounds with olive oil and toast them in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp.
For extra flavor, sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning or a pinch of smoked paprika before serving. The contrast of warm bread with cool hummus is pure magic. 🥖
Grilled Flatbreads
For a more substantial pairing, try grilling naan or lavash flatbreads on a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side. Brush with garlic-infused olive oil and finish with a sprinkle of feta cheese (optional) for a Mediterranean twist.
The charred edges add a smoky depth that complements the chipotle perfectly. 🔥
Chips and Crackers
For a casual spread, serve with baked tortilla chips or pita chips—their sturdy texture holds up well to the creamy hummus. I also love pairing it with water crackers or rice crackers for a lighter option.
For a gourmet touch, try rosemary olive oil crackers or za'atar-seasoned crackers from specialty stores. 🍟
Sandwich Spread
Don't limit this hummus to dipping—it makes an incredible sandwich spread! Slather it on toasted sourdough or ciabatta with thinly sliced avocado, arugula, and sliced tomatoes.
Add a sprinkle of chipotle powder and a drizzle of hot honey for extra flavor. The smoky depth elevates simple sandwiches to restaurant-quality. 🥪
Protein Pairings
For a heartier meal, serve this hummus alongside grilled chicken skewers, spiced chickpeas, or smoked salmon. The smoky chipotle flavor balances the richness of protein perfectly.
I love pairing it with marinated grilled shrimp or crispy tofu bites for a fully plant-based spread. The hummus adds moisture and flavor to dry proteins. 🍤
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Why does this recipe use black beans instead of chickpeas?
The black beans create a richer, earthier base that mimics Lantana's signature depth while adding plant-based protein. They blend smoother than chickpeas and absorb flavors exceptionally well, giving that signature smoky chipotle kick a velvety texture. The result is creamier than traditional hummus with a subtle nutty undertone.
Can I make this without tahini?
Replace the ⅓ cup tahini with ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil plus 1 tbsp lemon juice for a similar creamy texture. The hummus will be slightly lighter but still delicious. For extra richness, add 1 tbsp nutritional yeast—it adds a cheesy depth that balances the smoky flavors.
How can I adjust the spice level?
Start with 1 tbsp chipotle powder for mild heat, then adjust to taste. For medium heat, add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tsp smoked paprika. For extra spice, mix in 1 tsp hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Always taste before serving—you can't overdo it with smoky flavors!
What's the best way to store leftovers?
Transfer to an airtight container and press a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. It stays fresh in the fridge for 5 days or up to 3 months in the freezer. For freezing, portion into ice cube trays, then transfer to a bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Is this hummus gluten-free?
Yes! All ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your pita bread or crackers for serving are certified gluten-free. For extra safety, check labels on tahini and spices—some brands process in shared facilities. The hummus itself is completely safe for gluten-free diets.
