For every food lover, hummus and pita bread occupy a position in the tick-box list of favourite foods. The creamy hummus with pita and olives is a full package of protein and calories. Dated centuries ago, hummus is a cherished culinary gem of the Middle East and has gained popularity across the globe.
Do you know there is a wide range of hummus available? For the unfamiiar, hummus is a condiment primarily made by blending cooked chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. It boasts a creamy and velvety texture with a subtle hint of tanginess. Its earthy, nutty undertones are complemented by a dash of spices such as cumin and paprika, creating a harmonious symphony of flavours.
Often served as an appetiser or accompaniment to dishes, hummus pairs wonderfully with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or even as a topping for salads and wraps. Beyond its mouthwatering taste, hummus is celebrated for its nutritional value as a rich source of plant-based protein, fibre, and essential nutrients. With its widespread popularity, hummus has transcended cultural boundaries, becoming a beloved culinary sensation worldwide.
Hummus can be served in a variety of ways, such as as a dip with pita bread or veggies, spread on sandwiches, or as a side to complement other dishes. Hummus is considered a favourite choice for vegans and vegetarians, offering a blend of taste and flavour.
Za’atar, a restaurant in Mumbai, experiments with hummus and provides a lot of different varieties. They like to add different flavours to the centre of the hummus instead of mixing it, so that the real fresh and tangy flavour stands out.
Check out the different types of Hummus served here:
- Classic Hummus
This traditional delight is crafted by blending cooked chickpeas with creamy tahini, tangy lemon juice, aromatic garlic, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The result is a velvety texture with a delightful nutty undertone, complemented by a subtle zing of citrus.
- Hummus Beiruti
Hummus Beiruti, a delightful variation of traditional hummus, hails from the vibrant city of Beirut, Lebanon. What sets this apart from classic hummus is the addition of ground red pepper or Aleppo pepper, lending a warm and gentle heat to the mix. Besides, it is topped with a salad made of sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley.
- Hummus With Spicy Red Pepper
If you want to enjoy a little spice, this hummus is perfect for you. To the regular hummus, add roasted peppers and a special harissa sauce. The fusion of heat and nuttiness creates a harmonious balance, appealing to both spice enthusiasts and hummus connoisseurs alike.
- Hummus With Olive Tapenade
This is a tantalising fusion of Mediterranean flavours that contains the bold and briny notes of olive tapenade. It has a combination of black and green olives, garlic, parsley, and chilies.
- Hummus With Sundried Tomato Tapenade
The classic hummus gets an irresistible upgrade with the addition of a luscious sundried tomato tapenade. The tapenade, made from plump sundried tomatoes, olives, garlic, and a splash of balsamic vinegar, infuses the hummus with a burst of sweet and tangy intensity.
- Hummus With Minced Chicken
In this variation, the tender and flavorful chicken is sautéed with aromatic Arabic spices, sumac herbs, and onions, infusing the hummus with rich and savoury notes that complement the nutty tahini and citrusy undertones.
- Hummus With Grilled Chicken
The velvety hummus, crafted from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon, serves as a luscious and creamy base for the succulent grilled chicken. The chicken, marinated in a medley of herbs and spices, is expertly grilled to perfection, infusing the dish with a mouthwatering depth of flavour. It is generally topped with Shredded chicken, Shish tawook, and parsley.