THEhummus, a dish enjoyed all over the world, is delicious chickpea-based cream, tahini, lemon and garlic. Fresh and tasty, it is perfect for all seasons, requiring only a mixer and a pinch of creativity. Originally from the Middle East, but now embraced throughout the world, this versatile condiment enchants with its ancient history and its ability to adapt to multiple dishes and occasions.
Hummus: history and origins
Hummus has its roots in a history that spans millennia. The term itself, deriving from Arabic and translatable as "chickpeas", reveals the undisputed protagonist of this exquisite preparation. Its origin is the subject of contention, some attribute it to the ancient Egyptians, who mixed chickpeas, garlic, sesame seeds and spices to make a tasty puree. Others to the land of the Levant. The intricate history of hummus became further complicated in 2008, giving rise to the famous “Hummus Wars“. In that year, Lebanon accused Israel of unduly claiming the authorship of hummus, a dispute that even went beyond cuisines to morph into a copyright issue. The Lebanese took legal action against the Israelis, even demanding that hummus be recognized as Lebanese food by the European Union.
This controversy is still ongoing, demonstrating how hummus has become more than just a dish. As time passed, it also conquered the West, thanks to its versatility and its nutritional profile.
How to prepare chickpea hummus? Here is the recipe
La basic recipe for hummus requires a few ingredients main:
- can (about 400g) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and Pepper To Taste
- Water to taste (to adjust the consistency)
Some variations include adding parsley, paprika or cumin to enrich the flavor.
Method
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic and cumin. Blend the ingredients until you obtain a smooth consistency. Add the olive oil while the processor is running and continue blending until the hummus is creamy. Adjust the consistency with a little water, if necessary, and adjust the flavor with salt and pepper. Transfer the hummus to a bowl and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, black pepper and fresh parsley, if desired.
Homemade hummus is perfect to enjoy as appetizer or spread on toast. It is also an excellent dressing for salads, sandwiches and panini. More daring variations include using hummus as a base for pizzas or as a sauce to season pasta dishes.
Nutritional properties
In addition to its delicious flavor, hummus delivers nutritional benefits. Packed with protein, fiber and healthy fats, it's a healthy choice for anyone looking for a nutritious alternative to traditional condiments. It also contains essential minerals and vitamins, such as calcium, iron, potassium, folic acid, phosphorus and B vitamins, which are very useful for vegans and vegetarians, individuals may not obtain these micronutrients from animal products. But be careful, hummus is rich in calories, so don't overdo it.
Hummus around the world: the variations
Every culture has its own interpretation of this Mediterranean delicacy. L'Israeli hummus, for example, may include roasted chickpeas or smoked eggplant. In Lebanon hummus is combined with labneh, a yogurt made from sheep or goat's milk, to obtain a creamier and fresher flavor. In India curry powder, cumin and coriander are added for a hummus with a spicy touch. In the Western world, variations with the addition of avocado, chili pepper or sunflower seeds have become popular. This diversity reflects the continuous innovation and adaptation of traditional recipes.
