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If you watched the movie “You Don’t Mess With the Zohan” featuring Adam Sandler, you noticed right away that hummus is mentioned extensively throughout the film. There is a reason for this. Israelis love to eat hummus. Although, admittedly, the movie took the use of hummus to ridiculous extremes that I wouldn’t advise. However, it is not only Israelis that love hummus, it is also a popular spread or dip throughout the Middle East and continues to grow in popularity around the globe. Why is that? Simple. On top of being very flavorful, hummus is also incredibly healthy.
What makes hummus healthy?
Hummus is a combination of ingredients that rate high in their respective nutritional profiles. The main ingredients that you will find in either store bought or homemade hummus are:
- Pureed chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans): This is the main ingredient in hummus and is loaded with fiber, protein, zinc, folic acid, calcium, iron and magnesium. They also provide a multitude of other nutrients and antioxidants that can help lower cholesterol, fight infections and diseases. They may even lower the risk of certain types of cancer.
- Tahini: A paste made from crushed sesame seeds, tahini provides a good source of essential fatty acids, vitamin E, calcium, iron and protein.
- Lemon juice: Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C, folate, potassium, vitamin B, phosphorous and antioxidants, which are important for promoting a healthy body.
- Olive oil: Olive oil contains monounsaturated fat a healthy unsaturated fat that is important for promoting heart health by lowering bad LDL cholesterol.
- Garlic: Garlic is an excellent source of manganese and a good source of vitamin B (B1 & B6), vitamin C, protein, phosphorus, selenium, calcium, potassium, iron and copper.
How can I add hummus to my diet?
There are many ways to incorporate hummus into your diet. Here are five suggestions to get you started:
- Sandwiches: Instead of using cream cheese, butter or mayonnaise on your bread or bagel, use hummus instead. It is a very flavorful spread that contains less fat.
- Dip: For a party, set a bowl of hummus on the table and surround it with either pita chips, tortilla chips or raw veggies. It will definitely be a party pleaser.
- Condiment on burgers and falafel: Whether you are eating a veggie burger, turkey burger, hamburger or falafel, use hummus as a condiment to give your meal an extra flavorful kick while providing more nutritional benefits than ketchup, mayonnaise or barbecue sauce.
- Crackers: Want an appetizer? Try spreading hummus on crackers or pita chips instead of cheese.
- Make your own: Don’t want to buy hummus? Make your own. It is actually very easy to make and doesn’t require too much time. Here is the link to the recipe that I use.
The bottom line:
Not only is hummus flavorful, but it is also packed with nutritional benefits. So, the next time you are about to make a sandwich or party dish, think of hummus instead of the usual spreads or dips. You won’t regret your choice. There is a reason why everyone in the Middle East is crazy over hummus and why Zohan couldn’t get enough of it. It really is that good!
Sources: Organic Facts, WebMD
