What is hummus? You may have seen several different types of hummus in your local supermarket and wondered what exactly it was. A basic hummus recipe typically consists of chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans), tahini (or sesame seed paste), and a bit of salt, pepper, and other spices to add flavor; some varieties and easy hummus recipes will use oil, also, but it’s not necessary. However, there are plenty of ingredients that can be added to hummus to give it more flavor.
Hummus is typically eaten in wraps or sandwiches or as a snack with vegetables, crackers, pita bread, chips, or other foods if eating a dip. Whether it’s advertised as a hummus spread or a hummus dip, it contains the same basic ingredients and can be used for either purpose. Here are three different types of hummus that represent some of the most popular flavors for this simple yet nutritious spread:
- Roasted Garlic Hummus: Roasted garlic hummus dips are popular for those who like to add herbs and spices to hummus. This may be a good start for someone who isn’t sure about experimenting with different types of hummus varieties because it is most similar to a plain hummus. For this type of hummus, the garlic needs to be oven-roasted to help dry it out and add a smoky flavor to it.
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Roasted red pepper hummus is another popular flavor, made by just about every brand out there. Like roasted garlic hummus, the peppers in this type of hummus also need to be roasted for flavoring. Red pepper hummus goes well in sandwiches and wraps, and it also adds flavor to couscous and other Middle Eastern or Mediterranean dishes.
- Spicy Hummus: Spicy hummus dips are typically made with hot peppers, such as chipotles, or seasoned with cayenne pepper or chili powder. There are a number of ways to make hummus spicy, and if you’re making it on your own, then you can choose how hot you’d like it. Most spicy hummus dips are about a medium level of spicy.
What’s your favorite type of hummus? Tell us in the comments.
