The Mediterranean Dip “Spreading” Across the Country
If there was a nutrition contest for dips, hummus would win the top prize in almost every category. Considering that each 2-tablespoon serving includes heart-healthy fat, 2 to 3 grams of protein, and about 3 grams of fiber. A serving of hummus has between 50-70 calories depending on the brand. The traditional recipe consists of chickpeas, sesame paste (aka tahini), lemon juice, spices and olive oil.
Most of the health benefits come from the chickpeas. They’re full of key nutrients such as B vitamins, calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. They’re part of a class of legumes called pulses, which have been shown to offer several health benefits.
Studies show that people who eat a lot of pulses tend to weigh less. In addition, they tend to have lower blood pressure, lower levels of bad cholesterol, and a reduced risk of certain diseases, like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and even certain types of cancer.
In the 1960s and 1970s, hummus was relegated to health food stores and ethnic sections of grocery. More recently, Americans seem to have decided that this low-fat, high-protein snack with a little olive oil stirred in isn’t so exotic. Today, we can’t get enough of this rich and creamy spread, which has begun to rival salsa and guacamole as one of America’s favorite dips. It’s estimated that 25% of American homes now stock hummus in the fridge.
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, have been cultivated in the Middle East for thousands of years. (The word “hummus” actually means “chickpea” in Arabic.) However, history is unclear on who first thought to mash the legumes and mix them with sesame seed paste, or tahini, to make hummus.
If you love this healthy dip, try our delicious flavors of hummus at any of our Paymon’s locations. Our menu boasts 5 mouthwatering flavors including original, a puree of chickpeas, tahini, fresh garlic, olive oil and fresh lemon juice, pesto hummus, roasted red pepper hummus, sun-dried tomato hummus, and jalapeno and lime-cilantro hummus.
