As one of the most popular dips around, hummus has become a staple food in many households. Made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, hummus is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. But what should you eat with hummus? In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best foods to pair with hummus and provide you with a recipe for making your own homemade hummus.
What is Hummus?
Before we get into what to eat with hummus, let’s start with the basics. Hummus is a dip made from chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans), tahini (a paste made from sesame seeds), lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. It originated in the Middle East and has been enjoyed for thousands of years.
In addition to being delicious, hummus is also a nutritious food. Chickpeas are a great source of protein, fiber, and several vitamins and minerals. Tahini is also a good source of healthy fats and minerals like iron and magnesium. And, of course, the olive oil in hummus is an excellent source of healthy monounsaturated fats.
Different Types of Hummus
There are many different types of hummus available, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some popular types of hummus include:
- Classic Hummus – made with the traditional ingredients of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus – made by adding roasted red peppers to the classic hummus recipe
- Spicy Hummus – made by adding spices like cayenne pepper or paprika to the classic hummus recipe
- Black Bean Hummus – made by substituting black beans for the chickpeas in the classic hummus recipe
- Avocado Hummus – made by adding avocado to the classic hummus recipe
Each type of hummus has its own unique flavor and texture, and can be paired with different foods depending on your personal preferences.
What to Eat with Hummus
Now that you know what hummus is and the different types of hummus available, let’s explore some of the best foods to pair with hummus:
1. Vegetables
Vegetables are the perfect pairing for hummus. The crunchiness of the vegetables complements the creaminess of the hummus, and the flavors of the two work well together. Some vegetables that pair well with hummus include:
- Carrots
- Celery
- Cucumber
- Bell peppers
- Radishes
You can also try roasting or grilling your vegetables for a different flavor and texture.
2. Pita Bread
Pita bread is a classic pairing with hummus. The soft, chewy texture of the bread pairs well with the creamy texture of the hummus, and the flavor of the bread complements the flavors in the hummus. You can use pita bread to dip in your hummus, or you can stuff the hummus and vegetables into the pita bread to make a delicious sandwich or wrap.
3. Crackers and Chips
If you’re looking for a crunchy pairing with your hummus, crackers and chips are a great option. Choose crackers or chips that are sturdy enough to hold up to dipping, like pita chips or rice crackers. You can also try flavored crackers or chips to add some extra flavor to your hummus dip.
4. Meat and Cheese
If you’re looking for a more substantial pairing with your hummus, meat and cheese are a great option. Try pairing hummus with sliced deli meat, like turkey or ham, or with cubes of cheese, like feta or cheddar. This is a great option for a protein-packed snack or appetizer.
5. Fruit
While it may seem unconventional, fruit is a great pairing for hummus. Fruits like apples, pears, and grapes pair well with hummus, as the sweetness of the fruit complements the creaminess of the hummus. You can also try dipping your berries in hummus for a sweet and savory snack.
How to Make Homemade Hummus
Making your own homemade hummus is surprisingly easy and can be a fun way to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Here’s a simple recipe for making your own classic hummus:
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Add all of the ingredients to a food processor or blender.
- Pulse the ingredients together until smooth.
- If the hummus is too thick, you can add a bit of water to thin it out.
- Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and drizzle with additional olive oil if desired.
- Serve with your favorite pairings.
Experiment with different ingredients, like roasted red peppers or avocado, to make your own unique hummus recipes.
FAQs
What is the best healthy snack with hummus?
Hummus is a healthy and versatile snack that can be paired with many different foods. Some of the best healthy snacks to eat with hummus include fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes. You can also pair hummus with whole-grain crackers, pita chips, or whole-wheat bread for a more filling snack.
What can I eat hummus with to lose weight?
If you’re looking to lose weight, pairing hummus with high-fiber and low-calorie foods is a great strategy. Vegetables like celery, bell peppers, and cucumber are all excellent options that are low in calories and high in fiber, helping you to feel full for longer. You can also pair hummus with lean proteins like grilled chicken or turkey slices, or with hard-boiled eggs for a protein-packed snack. Avoid high-calorie pairings like chips or crackers, as they can quickly add up in calories and sabotage your weight loss goals.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of delicious foods to pair with hummus. From vegetables to crackers to meat and cheese, the possibilities are endless. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own homemade hummus to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Whether you’re snacking on your own or entertaining guests, hummus is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
