Hummus among us

If you’re always looking for a low-fat, high-protein, delicious, and versatile snack, then look no further. Let us discuss hummus.

With its main ingredients being chickpeas, tahini (crushed sesame seeds), garlic, and lemon juice, hummus is an excellent source of dietary fibre, protein, zinc, iron, and foliates. Combine hummus with vegetables, whether as a dip or on a salad, or as a spread on sandwiches.

Hummus is a great, healthy alternative to other high-fat dips, dressings, and spreads like mayonnaise or sour cream. As a plant-derived protein, it is also a sustainable source of protein to incorporate into your diet.

Incorporating rich vegetable-proteins, such as chickpeas, into your diet is also a delicious way to reduce your carbon footprint. So the next time you’re trying to think of a nice, light afternoon snack, try whipping out some corn chips to enjoy with a bowl of hummus.

Buy or make?

With its origins in the Middle East, pre-made hummus is sometimes available in food stores throughout North America. However, it is also very simple to make yourself. Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, can be bought pre-cooked and preserved in cans at most grocery stores.

If you have a little bit more time and would like to avoid preservatives, chickpeas can be found in their raw form at most bulk-food stores and health food stores. Soak these beans in water for 24 hours, then cook them for a couple hours and they are ready to go!

For those of you with a green thumb, you can grow chickpeas yourself in your garden or in a sunny window.

If you’ve never given hummus a taste, give it a try! You may be surprised at just how delicious a chickpea spread can be…
Christie’s Lip-Smacking Hummus:

Ingredients:

* 2 cups of chickpeas
* 1/3 cup water
* Juice of 2 lemons
* ½ cup tahini
* 2 cloves garlic, crushed
* ½ tsp. salt
* Cayenne pepper
* Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)

Directions:

Mix all ingredients in a blender or food processor until smooth. Sprinkle with cayenne pepper, and cilantro or parsley.