Hummus for the Masses

If you happened to have read the New York Times, today, you may have noticed an article discussing one of God’s greatest gifts to the earth—hummus, of course. As I mentioned a few months ago, hummus is my favorite food; it’s one of those rare foods that is nutritious, delicious, and endlessly versatile.

According to the aforementioned article, it seems that I am not alone in my fondness for the blended chickpea. Beginning in the 1960s and 1970s, hummus gained a reputation in this country as a “hippie food” (along with my beloved tofu). In the past ten years, however, hummus has fast become a staple in American households. As an illustration, the author explains that 90 percent of chickpeas were exported out of the country ten years ago; now just 40 percent are exported, largely due to the burgeoning crowd of hummus fans.

What is unique about those newly converted to the wonders of hummus is that they prefer flavored varieties, as opposed to the simple blend of chickpeas, tahini, and garlic. Take one glance at my homemade hummus recipe page, and it soon becomes apparent that I am hardly a hummus purist either. I consider basic hummus as an artist might consider a blank canvas; I relish the opportunity to use my creativity to make something better than the original. As I see it, adding beets, spinach, pumpkin, and other Broccoli Hut favorites yields delicious, and often more nutritious versions of the original hummus recipe.

How about you? Are you hummus “purist,” or do you prefer flavored varieties?

Although I could eat hummus three meals a day, every day, I did manage to eat a few other things today.

After another steamy run this morning, I decided that a smoothie-in-a-bowl would be the perfect way to cool off. Peach-banana is one amazing combo—recipe to be posted soon.

I think it goes without saying what I had for lunch. (Check out the hummus page for the recipe).

Dinner was a simple affair, just another bean salad with my favorite Goddess dressing. Simple but oh-so-delicious.

Alright, I need to get myself organized for a long day tomorrow. Ciao!

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17 Responses to “Hummus for the Masses”

  1. I saw that article, it was a fun read. Although (like with most trends) the NYT was about 2 steps behind the beat. Flavored hummus isn’t breaking news.

    I like my hummus both ways- plain and doctored. Sabra red pepper and TJ’s guacamole hummus are perennial faves.

  2. I have been on a hummus kick lately. There are so many flavors to choose it is hard to pick a favorite. You have converted me to a hummus lover, to be honest. :)

  3. How do you do to pass through the day with only humus and veggies for lunch!! Aren’t you hungry all the time with such small meals…..yes humus is good..but damn I use it as a condiment such as mayo, or tatziki..not as a meal!!
    are you sure you want to be a nutritionnist…or you still have some issues with food…and being thin….

    I’m sorry but your lunch is NOT healthy and is Not a good example for a real meal.

  4. I have to make some of your hummus! I love straight up garlic hum, but I also love other flavors like sesame and sundried tomato.

  5. Awwww snap! Jennifer has some food bloggertude!

  6. I don’t discriminate when it comes to hummus. As long as it has chickpeas and tahini, I’m in!

  7. Great info on chickpeas and hummus. I obviously am a fanatic too. My favorite variety is either your artichoke or the jalapeno cilantro sold at Publix (its so so good). I love your bfast smoothie bowl. I have been making a lot of breakfast smoothies lately. Terrific in the summer. Hope you have a good one

  8. I’m not a hummus purist either! My favorite is roasted red pepper or artichoke/spinach hummus flavors. So yummy! :D

  9. Don’t listen to Jennifer; your lunch looks great, and you’ve told us all on multiple occasions that you don’t show everything you eat. We all know you’re healthy. :]

    I love greek hummus the best! Or roasted red pepper… I’m determined to get through all the Sabra’s flavors before I die, hahah.

  10. i LOVE hummus, I thikn the original is the best, But I love trying new flavors, roasted red pepper is delicious but to me it doesnt taste like the authentic hummus…isreal has the BEST most amazing hummus you will ever taste

  11. I def. love variety when it comes to hummus! (And any food for that matter). I think the best hummus I’ve ever tried was a peanut hummus from ED&BV

  12. and p.s. don’t worry about Jennifer. Clearly she’s drinking haterade

  13. Hee hee I def know that you love hummus, because I think of you whenever I see it! I love flavored ones better, though. Not a purist at all!

  14. I like hummus, but I don’t love hummus. Perhaps I just need to find my personal hummus flavour? I rarely make my own, for no really good reason, because obviously it’s way cheaper! That’s it – I’m off to make my own hummus. Maybe not today, but soon!

  15. such a great post! I myself will eat hummus in pretty every way imaginable and I like the plain too :) I think my favorite is roasted red pepper and garlic mmm I always find myself munching on carrots and hummus before dinner too.

  16. I looooovvveeeeee hummus! I think I can have it 3 times a day too! I like to try out various kind of flavors of hummus, but the original one never gets old ;-)

  17. Regarding Jennifer’s comment, while it does appear from your post alone that your day of eats was particularly light for a runner, like Marissa said, you’ve mentioned several times you don’t blog everything you eat, so I assume you eat much more than is posted to sustain your active lifestyle. Maybe it would help others if you post a day including your snacks? I know I often struggle to make sure I am properly fueled on days that I run.

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