Industry Trend: Hummus

Industry Trend: Hummus

As more people nix fattening spreads like mayonnaise, butter and peanut butter, they have become obsessed with hummus. This flavorful, international concoction has become a staple in some peoples’ diets whether it is applied to sandwiches, carrots, chips or pita bread.

What It Is: Hummus is a dip that comes from the Levant region of the world, an area encompassing Syria, Turkey, Lebanon, Israel, Jordan and Northern Iraq.

The spread is made with cooked smashed chickpeas, Tahini , olive oil, lemon, salt and garlic; however these days many people add their own twist and have created flavors like Roasted Garlic, Roasted Red Pepper, Hummus with Pine nuts and Hummus with Salsa. The spread is traditionally served with flatbread or pita but many people these days use it as dip for carrots or as a replacement for mayo on a sandwich.

Hummus has nutritional value along with being lower in carbs, calories and fat than other dips. It is high in iron, folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin C and, because of the chickpeas, is a great source of protein and fiber. The Tahini in hummus, although filled with fat and calories, is used sparingly in recipes and is a good source of calcium.

Who Might be Interested: Hummus is a vegan dish and provides a full meal of protein for those who look to different foods than animal products for sources of protein. Also, this dish is low in saturated fat and the chickpeas are said to keep cholesterol from building up in blood vessels. Omega 3 fatty acids are present in hummus and help maintain a healthy heart.

Availability: Hummus is available online and in most grocery stores. Some popular brands include Sabra, Tribe and Nasoya

 Hummus Recipe by Ina Garten