Hummus with Crudités and House-Made Bread
Classic hummus served with fresh vegetables and warm bread.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Hummus's origins are ancient, with evidence suggesting variations of the dish existed in the Middle East for centuries. Chickpeas, the main ingredient, have been cultivated in the region for over 10,000 years. The combination of chickpeas with tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, and garlic likely evolved over time, influenced by the agricultural practices and culinary traditions of various cultures in the Levant.
Hummus is more than just a food; it's a cultural icon in the Middle East, representing hospitality, community, and shared meals.
Communal Eating
Hummus is often served as part of a mezze, a selection of small dishes shared among friends and family. This encourages conversation, connection, and a sense of togetherness.
National Identity
Hummus is a source of national pride in many Middle Eastern countries, with each claiming to have the 'best' version. This has even led to friendly (and sometimes not-so-friendly) competition over the title.
Symbol of Hospitality
Offering hummus to guests is a sign of warmth and generosity in Middle Eastern culture. It's a way of welcoming people into your home and sharing a part of your heritage.
The flavors of hummus are a harmonious blend of earthy, nutty, and tangy notes, complemented by fresh vegetable sweetness and the comforting warmth of freshly baked bread.
Hummus itself offers a creamy, rich texture with the earthy flavor of chickpeas balanced by the nutty sesame taste of tahini. Lemon juice provides a bright tang, while garlic adds a pungent kick. The crudités offer a variety of fresh, crisp flavors and textures, from the sweetness of carrots and bell peppers to the earthy flavor of cucumbers and radishes. The house-made bread, ideally warm and slightly chewy, provides a comforting counterpoint to the cool hummus and crisp vegetables.
Perfect Hummus Texture
To achieve a super smooth hummus, remove the skins from the cooked chickpeas before blending. This takes time, but makes a significant difference. Alternatively, add ice water while blending to emulsify the ingredients and create a creamier texture.
High-Quality Tahini
The quality of tahini greatly impacts the flavor of hummus. Look for tahini made from 100% sesame seeds, preferably from Ethiopia or Israel, known for their richer flavor.
Fresh and Crisp Crudités
Choose seasonal vegetables and ensure they are very fresh and crisp. Cut them into manageable sizes for dipping and serving. Consider including a variety of colors and textures for visual appeal.
Warm Bread is Key
Warm, freshly baked bread elevates the entire experience. Serve it alongside the hummus and crudités immediately for the best taste and texture. Pita bread, naan, or even crusty sourdough are excellent choices.
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