If you're looking for a healthy and flavorful snack or appetizer, hummus is a great choice. Made from seasoned mashed chickpeas, hummus is a tasty and nutritious option that can be enjoyed with a variety of different foods. With only 23 calories per tablespoon, it's also a low-calorie option that won't derail your diet.
Along with being tasty and low in calories, hummus also offers a number of health benefits. It's a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which can help you stay full and satisfied between meals. In addition, chickpeas are a good source of vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and folate.
In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies on how to incorporate hummus into your diet, as well as its nutritional value and potential concerns.
What is hummus?
Hummus is a dip or spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It originated in the Middle East and is now enjoyed around the world as a healthy and flavorful snack or condiment. There are many different varieties of hummus available, including plain, roasted red pepper, and sun-dried tomato. Some recipes also include additional ingredients like roasted garlic, parsley, or cumin.
What are the benefits of hummus?
Hummus offers a number of health benefits. It's a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which can help you stay full and satisfied between meals. In addition, chickpeas are a good source of vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and folate. The olive oil in hummus also contains antioxidants and may help reduce the risk of heart disease. Overall, hummus is a nutritious and satisfying snack or condiment that can help support a healthy diet.
How is hummus made?
Hummus is typically made by blending chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor or blender. Additional ingredients like roasted red pepper or sun-dried tomato can also be added for extra flavor. Once blended, the hummus is typically served cold or at room temperature with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
What makes commercial hummus different from homemade hummus?
Commercial hummus is often made using different ingredients or processing methods than homemade hummus. Some commercial brands may add preservatives or artificial ingredients to their hummus to increase shelf life or enhance flavor. Homemade hummus, on the other hand, is typically made with whole, natural ingredients and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Additionally, making hummus at home allows you to control the quality and freshness of the ingredients.
What can you eat hummus with?
Hummus can be enjoyed with a variety of different foods. Some popular options include pita bread, vegetables like carrots or celery, crackers, or as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. Hummus can also be used as a substitute for mayonnaise or sour cream in recipes like potato or pasta salad.
How much hummus should you consume?
While hummus is a nutritious and low-calorie option, it's important to consume it in moderation. A serving size of hummus is typically 2 tbsp, which contains around 50 calories. If you're using hummus as a snack or condiment, aim for no more than 2-4 servings per week to avoid consuming excess calories or sodium.
Can hummus go bad?
Like most foods, hummus can go bad if not stored properly or consumed within a certain timeframe. Freshly made hummus will typically last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator, while store-bought hummus can last for up to a week. Check the expiration date on packaged hummus and discard any hummus that appears moldy or has an off smell or taste.
What are the nutritional facts of hummus?
Hummus is a nutritious and low-calorie option that offers a number of health benefits. A serving size of 2 tbsp (30g) commercial hummus contains approximately: - 50 calories - 2.5g protein, 3.5g fat, and 2g fiber
Are there any concerns with consuming hummus?
While hummus is generally considered a healthy and safe food, there are a few potential concerns to be aware of. First, some commercial brands of hummus may contain high amounts of sodium or added sugars, so it's important to read nutrition labels and choose brands with lower sodium and sugar content. Additionally, some people may experience digestive issues like bloating or gas when consuming large amounts of legumes like chickpeas. If you experience these symptoms, try reducing your intake of hummus or other legume-based foods.
What are some common hummus flavors?
Along with traditional plain hummus, there are many different flavors of hummus available to try. Some popular options include: - Roasted red pepper - Sun-dried tomato
Hummus is a nutritious and satisfying snack or condiment that can help support a healthy diet.
FAQs About Commercial Hummus
1. Is hummus healthy?
Yes, hummus is generally considered a healthy food as it is made from chickpeas which are a good source of protein and fiber. However, commercially made hummus may contain added ingredients that are less healthy like preservatives, salt or sugar.
2. Can hummus cause weight gain?
If consumed in moderation, hummus is unlikely to cause weight gain as it is low in calories and high in nutrients. However, overconsumption like any food can lead to weight gain.
3. Is store-bought hummus safe to eat?
Yes, if the store-bought hummus is properly stored and labelled, it should be safe to eat. However, it's important to check the expiry date and ingredients label to ensure it doesn't contain any allergens.
4. How long can commercial hummus last in the fridge?
Commercial hummus can last up to a week in the fridge after opening, provided it's stored in an airtight container. However, it's best to check the expiry date on the packaging before consuming.
5. Is hummus suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes, hummus is an excellent source of protein for vegetarians and vegans as it's made from chickpeas. However, some commercial hummus may contain animal products like yogurt or cheese so it's important to check the ingredients list.