Hummus is a dip and spread popular in the Middle East. Chefs make hummus using chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans. Add a cup of chickpeas to a food processor, along with some lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, and garlic – then blend on high until smooth.
Hummus is not only delicious, but it comes packed with plenty of nutrients and antioxidants as well. Hummus is rich in healthy fats, slow-burning carbs, and it’s the only plant-based source of protein with a complete amino acid profile. This fact makes hummus an excellent source of protein for vegans and vegetarians. Hummus also contains a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, including; Zinc, iron, potassium, folate copper and manganese.
Most traditional hummus recipes work with five ingredients listed above. However, you can make alterations to the hummus to spruce up the flavor and texture of the paste. Here are 10 ingredients for the tastiest hummus recipe you’ll ever eat
1. Chickpeas
Chickpeas, or garbanzo beans, are readily available at your local supermarket. There are various brands to choose from, but we recommend you go for a premium product to make the best hummus. Chickpeas are available in 12-oz cans or dried.
We prefer using dry chickpeas for our hummus, as many of the manufacturers use brine in the canning process, which somewhat alters the taste of the chickpeas. After returning home from the store, soak your chickpeas overnight in a bowl with warm water.
The following morning, drain the water from the bowl and start peeling your chickpeas for your hummus. Some people prefer to skip the peeling step, but we find peeling the peas makes for a smoother paste.
Eating chickpeas has numerous health benefits. From controlling and maintaining blood glucose to aiding digestion, the high fiber content of these legumes makes them a superfood that belongs in your diet.