Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s incredibly fast to prepare yet tastes like something far more elaborate. I like how the spices transform simple beef mince into something deeply savory, and I appreciate how the toppings—pine nuts, herbs, olive oil—add texture and freshness. It’s a beautiful dish for sharing, but also perfect for an easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Beef mince
1 tsp olive oil
1 onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, crushed
500g lean beef mince
½ tsp allspice
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp cracked black pepper

To serve
500g store bought hummus, room temperature*
30g pine nuts, toasted
Fresh parsley and mint
Fresh rocket leaves
Flatbread*
Olive oil or chilli oil

Directions

I start by heating the olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. I add the finely diced onion and sauté it for a few minutes until softened.

Next, I add the crushed garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Then I add the beef mince, breaking it up with a spoon and cooking until it browns.

Once the beef is cooked, I sprinkle in the allspice, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper. I cook everything for another 2 minutes to let the spices bloom and coat the mince evenly.

When the meat is ready, I spread the hummus onto a large round plate, smoothing it all the way to the edges. I spoon the hot, spiced beef mince over the hummus and top it with toasted pine nuts.

I finish the dish with chopped parsley and mint, a handful of fresh rocket, and a drizzle of olive oil or chilli oil. I serve it immediately with warm flatbread.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes warm the hummus slightly for an extra comforting version. I also like adding pomegranate seeds for a sweet, festive crunch. If I want a hint of sweetness, I drizzle a bit of honey on top. For extra spice, I add chilli flakes, harissa, or a spoonful of chilli oil. When I want more texture, I sauté mushrooms or zucchini along with the beef.

Storage/Reheating

I store the cooked beef mince separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I warm it gently in a pan. I keep the hummus refrigerated and bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before serving. I avoid freezing hummus since the texture can change, but the beef freezes well on its own for up to two months.

FAQs

Can I use lamb instead of beef?

Yes, lamb works beautifully and adds a richer flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

I replace the beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based mince.

Should I warm the hummus?

I often warm it slightly for a cozier dish, but room temperature also works well.

Can I prepare the beef ahead of time?

Yes, I cook it earlier in the day or the day before and reheat when serving.

What flatbread works best?

Pita, lavash, naan, or any soft flatbread is perfect.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, sautéed peppers, spinach, or zucchini pair nicely.

How do I toast pine nuts?

I toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until golden.

Can I use homemade hummus?

Absolutely—homemade hummus makes this dish even creamier.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild, but I can make it spicy with chilli oil or flakes.

Can I serve this as a starter?

Yes, I often serve it as a shared appetizer with plenty of bread.

Conclusion

I find Hummus and Beef Mince to be an incredibly satisfying dish that brings together creamy hummus, warm spiced beef, and fresh herbs in one beautiful plate. Whether I serve it as a quick dinner or a centerpiece for sharing, it always delivers bold flavor with minimal effort.