Name: Great Northern Bean Dip
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1½ cups Great Northern Beans (drained and rinsed (1 can)); ¼ cup Tahini; ¼ cup Lemon juice (fresh); 1 small Garlic clove; ½ tsp Salt (or to taste); ¼ tsp White pepper (or to taste)

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This sumptuous great northern bean dip is exquisitely creamy, made with simple ingredients and requiring less than 5 minutes of your time.

The idea of creating a hummus variation without chickpeas came to mind, giving rise to this opulent dip. By substituting chickpeas with great northern beans, the outcome is truly remarkable. The unparalleled creaminess and smoothness astound me.

Similar to my vegan bean dip, lima bean dip or this black bean dip, this recipe is suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegan, whole foods plant-based, gluten-free, and oil-free, I've intentionally omitted any form of oil. However, feel free to add extra virgin olive oil as a topper.

Ingredients and Variations

great northern beans, lemon juice, tahini, salt and white pepper in bowls

The complete list of ingredients with measurements, can be found in the full recipe card below.

I opted to keep the ingredients as simple as classic hummus: great northern beans, freshly squeezed lemon juice, tahini, salt, and fresh garlic (which is optional).

Given the beans' inherent creaminess and ease of blending, no additional water is necessary, as it would be with chickpeas.

Canned beans are fine to use, just rinse and drain prior to whipping up this dip.

I chose to use dried great northern beans, soaking them overnight. The next day, I covered them with water, brought them to a gentle boil, then reduced the heat and simmered them for 90 minutes (I am experimenting with reducing this time). This duration results in exceptionally soft beans, ideal for this dip.

Note: If I were to make a bean salad or soup to maintain a slightly firmer texture, I would simmer them for a shorter time.

While this dip possesses a very neutral flavor, it is wonderfully delicious. However, additional flavorings can be incorporated, such as a hint of curry powder, chili, herbs, or even ranch seasoning. The possibilities are endless.

a hand dipping in crudités into a great northern bean dip

Garnish

Given the dip's pristine white color, I enjoy using vibrant, contrasting garnishes like pomegranate arils, black sesame seeds, and freshly chopped parsley, which also contribute complementary flavors.

You could try topping it with a fresh tomato relish.

Did you make this? I'd love to know! Leave me a comment below with a ★★★★★ star rating or tag @plantbasedfolk on social media.

Recipe