Serves 8 hungry people (with generous leftovers for fuelling your Boxing Day adventures)

For the Hummus:
● 375g (about 1.5 cups) chickpeas, cooked and drained
● 750g (about 1.65 pounds) peeled carrots, roasted to tender perfection
● 250g (about 1/2 cup) tahini
● 100g (about 1/2 cup) olive oil
● Juice of half a lemon
● 10g (about 1 teaspoon) salt

For the Preserved Lemon (a nifty shortcut):
● 50g (about 1/4 cup) water
● 5 lemons, peeled with zest julienned
● 25g (about 2 tablespoons) Maldon salt

For the Carrot Jam:
● 100g (about 1/2 cup) sugar
● 25g (about 2 tablespoons) Maldon salt
● 125g (about 1/4 cup) maple syrup
● 7 small carrots, finely diced
● 67.5g (about 1/4 cup) harissa paste
● 50g (about 1/4 cup) olive oil
● 250ml (about 1 cup) orange juice

For Garnish:
● Freshly chopped coriander

Get ready for a flavourful adventure that’s perfect for the festive season! My “14 Carat Hummus” is a dazzling Mediterranean-inspired creation that’s bound to become your new holiday favourite.

For the Hummus:
1. Start by roasting your peeled carrots. Toss them with olive oil and a pinch of salt, then pop them in the oven at 200°C (392°F) for 20 minutes until they’re beautifully tender.
2. Once those vibrant orange gems have cooled, blend them with chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Blitz away until your hummus is silky smooth.
3. Season your creation with a touch more lemon and a pinch of salt if needed. This hummus should taste like a burst of Mediterranean sunshine on your taste buds.

For the Preserved Lemon (a nifty shortcut):
1. For a zesty twist, we’ve got a clever shortcut for preserved lemon. Julienne – fancy word for thin strips – the lemon peel and juice all those juicy lemons.
2. In a pan, combine water, a sprinkle of Maldon salt, lemon juice, and zest. Bring this lively concoction to a gentle simmer and let it dance for 20 minutes.
3. Once the lemony magic is done, set it aside. It’s the secret touch that elevates your hummus.

To Assemble:
1. Now comes the fun part! Lay out your “14 Carat Hummus” on a platter or individual plates making a well-like hole in the middle for the rest.
2. Drizzle that fabulous preserved lemon all over, creating a burst of zesty excitement.
3. Spoon on that exquisite carrot jam. It’s like the jewel on the crown of your hummus empire.
4. Sprinkle the whole affair with freshly chopped coriander. It’s the final flourish that takes your hummus to dazzling heights.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s a celebration. Gather your loved ones around, savour the flavours, and raise a glass to the festive spirit. My “14 Carat Hummus” is a symbol of unity, diversity, and the joy of giving. Enjoy this culinary masterpiece and remember, there’s always room for seconds and generous leftovers to fuel your Boxing Day adventures!