A Day For The Love Of Hummus!
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In these difficult times, where one is antsy about striking conversations on certain topics, why not redirect our talk towards a healthy treat that unifies us all? Coming to us right after Mother's Day, is the International Hummus Day!
The 13th of May is marked as a day to show your love for all things Hummus! No one can be offended by this gluten free, dairy free, nut free and drama free dip. It goes perfectly with everything from nachos to tacos to wraps. On today's edition of Mediterranean week, let's talk about this vegan delicacy that has nations competing to claim ownership.
The History Of Hummus
It all started with the humble chickpea or the garbanzo bean. Chickpeas were abundantly grown across the Levant region that included Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Cyprus and Lebanon. Each of these countries has had their own historical narrative of how they devised and developed Hummus from chickpeas, but none could be verified as the original birthplace of the simple and delicious dip.
World’s Largest Hummus Plate
In an attempt to claim it as their national dip, Lebanon created a humongous clay plate of Hummus weighing 10,452kgs! This feat did get them a place into the Guinness Book of world records as the world's largest plate of Hummus.
So, What Exactly Is Hummus And How Is It Made?
Essentially, it is a Mediterranean dip made with a smooth, silky puree of chickpeas, sesame seeds (how long do sesame seeds last?)and garlic paste. A dash of olive oil and a sprinkle of seasoning brings this beautiful dish together in a way like no other.
While aficionados have concocted many mouthwatering variations of this unassuming spread, the original recipe is actually quite simply made from five ingredients. Pureed garbanzo beans, some sesame seed paste(tahini (how long does tahini last?)), garlic, salt and extra virgin olive oil. Dip your pita bread in it and you have the perfect side dish, which in my opinion works just as well as a main too!
Facts About Hummus!
Hummus doubles up as an aphrodisiac! Chickpeas are a powerhouse of proteins and vitamins. These legumes are also known as the “Queen of Aphrodisiac's” since they contain arginine, known to increase blood flow.
It was named Bon Appetit’s ‘Dish of the Year’ in 2015.
It is rich in vitamin B And folate that protects against birth defects like spina bifida in newborns.
Combining two iron rich ingredients- chickpeas and sesame seeds make hummus effective in combating anemia.
It has taken the West by storm. The emerging wave of vegans (and the rest of us) have contributed in the growth of the hummus industry from $5million in 2002 to a staggering $725 million in 2016 in USA alone.
High in fiber and low in saturated fat, hummus keeps you satiated and full for longer. Move aside Mayo and ranch dips, Americans are looking for something that is crazy delicious and doesn't give them heart disease in the process!
Though traditionally made from garbanzo beans, experimentation among lovers has given us a whole range of ‘Hummus’ spreads that are made from carrots, spinach, beetroot and roasted bell peppers.
How To Best Enjoy Hummus?
You can slather it on some roasted eggplants. You can even add it to your slow cooked lamb shanks. Have it as late night snacks. Even better, add some chopped herbs and avocado to make it twice as delicious! Nutella and hummus go so well too…just saying.
Fun Activities To Do On International Hummus Day
Make your own hummus! Staying home has given us the time to prepare unprocessed and real foods, so get a blender and whisk away!
Enjoy it in all its versatility.
Post your own hummus recipes online, or pictures enjoying the dip under the hashtag #hummusday. Check out if there are any online events celebrating this day.
Where Can I Find Hummus In Texas?
Check out your local farmers markets for a locally made and unprocessed batch. The Mediterranean Chef, Floreli foods and Bonnie and Clyde Hummus offer some freshly made hummus dips, be sure to get some!
