Hummus is a flavorful Middle Eastern dip made with cooked, mashed chickpeas combined with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Olive oil, a few whole chickpeas, parsley, and paprika are common Middle Eastern garnishes. It's commonly served as a dip with pita bread in Middle Eastern cuisine. It is now produced industrially in the West, and it is usually served as a snack or appetiser with crackers. Hummus is derived from the Arabic word hummus, which means "chickpeas." In Israel, hummus is a staple of regular meals. It's produced with ingredients that can be used with both meat and dairy dishes according to Kashrut (Jewish dietary laws). Chickpea-based meals have long been a staple of Jewish cuisine in the Arab world. Hummus is not only tasty, but it's also versatile, full of nutrients, and has been linked to plenty of health and nutritional benefits.

Here's why hummus is considered healthy and nutritious-

A great option for vegans

Hummus has a lot of vitamins and minerals in it. It's also a good source of plant-based protein, making it a healthy choice for vegans and vegetarians.

Anti Inflammatory Properties

Chickpeas, olive oil, and sesame seeds (tahini) are all anti-inflammatory ingredients included in hummus. Furthermore, several studies have indicated that eating a diet high in legumes like chickpeas lowers inflammation indicators in the blood.

High In Fibre

Hummus is high in fibre, which might help you stay regular. Chickpea fibre may also encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that produce butyrate, a fatty acid that helps nourish gut cells.

Here are some dishes you can savour with hummus

Devilled Eggs

Although deviled eggs are extremely tasty, there's no disputing that mayonnaise isn't always the healthiest choice. If you're trying to eat healthily but still want the luscious flavour of traditional deviled eggs, try replacing the mayonnaise with hummus. Boil the eggs and then cut them lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the egg yolk, combine it with the hummus, and then return it to the egg whites. You're ready to dive in with a dusting of smoked paprika on top!

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Goodness of hummus in boiled eggs/ pixabay.com

Falafel

Falafel and hummus are a great match because they're both made with chickpeas! In a food processor, combine chickpeas, fresh herbs, garlic, onion, and spices, and pulse a few times until the mixture is finely crushed. Chill the dough before rolling it into balls and frying it! Serve with a fresh salad and a dollop of creamy hummus for dipping, and you've got yourself a wonderfully delectable supper.

Source: iStock 

Mashed potatoes

Mashed potatoes are creamy and buttery, and as a result, they might be unhealthy in some cases. Use hummus to make it less calorific. For added flavour, try garlic hummus in this recipe, which tastes just as creamy and luscious without the calories! Boil the potatoes until they are tender, then strain. Begin mashing the potatoes with the olive oil, gradually adding the milk. Mix in the hummus once the potatoes have been mashed. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Source: iStock 

Hummus Veggie Sandwich

A vegetable hummus sandwich is unbeatable! This dish combines whole ingredients to make a delicious and hearty sandwich that you won't be able to resist. Fresh hummus, spinach, cucumber, avocado, tomato, red onion, sprouts, and cheese are stacked over whole grain bread. Spread the hummus on the bread slices and serve. Combine the ingredients for the sandwich on two of the slices and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Veggie hummus sandwich/ Instagram- Khanekathikana