What To Dip In Hummus

The Ultimate Guide to Dipping in Hummus

A beloved delicacy, hummus has seeped its way into the hearts and kitchens of foodies worldwide. Often served as a dip, hummus is a versatile treat that pairs superbly with a variety of foods. In this guide, we will sail through the sea of dips that hummus offers and what food to eat with hummus. 

Hummus, traditionally made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, can serve as the perfect centrepiece for a platter or a healthy addition to a balanced lunch. Now, let’s delve deeper into the joyous journey of hummus and its dream team of dips.

What is Hummus?

Hailing from the Middle East, hummus is a classic, creamy dip that has been savoured for centuries. The primary ingredient, chickpeas, is rich in protein, making hummus both delicious and nutritious. The other mainstay, tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, adds rich depth while garlic and lemon juice provide a tangy finish.

But hummus isn’t just about the traditional recipe. It’s a culinary canvas, open to experimenting with flavours like roasted peppers, pumpkin, and even beetroot. It’s the ultimate sidekick for a variety of dishes, making it a diet-friendly choice for vegans, vegetarians, and meat-eaters alike.

Foods Perfect for Hummus Dips

When it comes to hummus dips, the options are endless, but some favourites stand out. No matter your preference, there’s a healthy snack food that’s a perfect match for hummus!

Here are some foods that pair perfectly with hummus dips:

1. Pita Bread: Classic choice! Warm, fluffy pita bread is ideal for scooping up creamy hummus.
2. Carrot Sticks: Crisp, sweet carrot sticks provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of hummus.
3. Cucumber Slices: Similarly, cool cucumber slices add a light and fresh element to your hummus dip.
4. Bell Pepper Strips: Colorful bell peppers, sliced into strips, offer a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor alongside hummus.
5. Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with juiciness, cherry tomatoes are perfect for dipping into hummus.
6. Celery Sticks: For a low-calorie option, try crunchy celery sticks with hummus for a satisfying snack.
7. Radishes: Sliced radishes provide a peppery bite that complements the creamy hummus.
8. Broccoli Florets: Steamed broccoli florets offer a nutritious and satisfying dipper for hummus.
9. Zucchini Spears: Raw zucchini spears are mild in flavor and pair well with the nuttiness of hummus.
10. Olives: For a Mediterranean twist, serve briny olives alongside your hummus for a burst of flavor.
11. Artichoke Hearts: Marinated artichoke hearts add a tangy flavor and tender texture to your hummus platter.
12. Whole Grain Crackers: Nutty whole grain crackers provide a hearty base for scooping up hummus.
13. Tortilla Chips: If you’re feeling adventurous, try dipping tortilla chips into hummus for a fusion of flavors.
14. Falafel: Crispy falafel balls are a natural pairing with hummus, offering a satisfying crunch and savory taste.
15. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like eggplant, zucchini, and cauliflower offer a caramelized flavor that complements hummus beautifully.

Feel free to mix and match these options to create your perfect hummus dipping experience!

Creating a Balanced Hummus Lunch

Creating a balanced hummus lunch is easy and delicious! Here’s a simple yet satisfying balanced lunch idea centered around hummus:

Main Dish:

• Hummus Wrap:
  • Whole grain tortilla or wrap
  • ½ cup of hummus (choose your favorite flavor)
  • Sliced grilled chicken breast, tofu, or falafel for protein
  • Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and shredded lettuce for crunch and freshness
  • Optional: crumbled feta cheese or sliced avocado for extra flavor and creaminess

Side Dish Options: Choose one or more of these side dishes to complement your hummus wrap:

1. Mixed Greens Salad:
   • Fresh mixed greens (spinach, kale, arugula, etc.)
   • Cherry tomatoes
   • Sliced cucumbers
   • Balsamic vinaigrette dressing on the side
2. Quinoa Salad:
   • Cooked quinoa
   • Diced bell peppers
   • Chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, mint)
   • Diced red onion
   • Lemon vinaigrette dressing
3. Roasted Vegetables:
   • Assorted roasted vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers
   • Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (rosemary, thyme, etc.)

Snack/Dessert: Choose a healthy snack or dessert to enjoy after your main meal:

• Fresh Fruit: Sliced apple, pear, or berries for a refreshing and naturally sweet treat.
• Greek Yogurt: A small serving of Greek yogurt topped with honey and a sprinkle of granola for added crunch.

Beverage:

• Water: Stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of water.
• Herbal Tea: Enjoy a cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, for a soothing and caffeine-free option.

This balanced hummus lunch provides a good mix of protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals to keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and customize based on your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy your nutritious and delicious hummus lunch!

Delicious Hummus Dipping Recipes

Creating a hummus dip at home is simple and customizable to your preferences. For a traditional hummus, blend chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and a drizzle of olive oil until creamy. Add more garlic or lemon juice to suit your taste buds.

Here are a few delicious hummus dipping recipes to try:

1. Spicy Roasted Red Pepper Hummus:
   • Ingredients:
     • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
     • 1/3 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
     • 2 tablespoons tahini
     • 2 cloves garlic, minced
     • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
     • 1 tablespoon olive oil
     • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
     • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
     • Salt and pepper to taste
     • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
   • Instructions:
     1. In a food processor, combine all ingredients and blend until smooth.
     2. Adjust seasoning to taste with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if desired.
     3. Serve with your favorite dipping accompaniments.
2. Avocado Hummus:
   • Ingredients:
     • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
     • 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
     • 2 tablespoons tahini
     • 2 cloves garlic, minced
     • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
     • 2 tablespoons olive oil
     • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Instructions:
     1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth and creamy.
     2. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
     3. Serve with sliced vegetables, pita bread, or crackers.
3. Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Hummus:
   • Ingredients:
     • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
     • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained
     • 2 tablespoons tahini
     • 2 cloves garlic, minced
     • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
     • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
     • 2 tablespoons olive oil
     • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Instructions:
     1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth.
     2. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
     3. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
4. Caramelized Onion Hummus:
   • Ingredients:
     • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
     • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
     • 2 tablespoons olive oil
     • 2 tablespoons tahini
     • 2 cloves garlic, minced
     • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
     • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Instructions:
     1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
     2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, caramelized onions, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
     3. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve with your favorite dippers.

These recipes offer a variety of flavors to enjoy with your hummus dip, from smoky and spicy to creamy and herbaceous. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to create your own unique hummus creations!

Expanding your Hummus Horizons

While hummus may seem like a simple dip, the enormity of its flavour profile and versatility is hard to overstate. From garlic-infused traditional hummus to innovative beetroot versions, there is a hummus dip for every palette and every meal.

So why limit hummus to just being a dip? Incorporate it into your lunch, use it as a spread, or make it the host of your mezze platter. No matter how you choose to enjoy hummus, know that every bite is a step towards a delicious, nutritious, and balanced diet.