Is hummus gluten free?
Hummus is generally considered gluten-free. The traditional ingredients used to make hummus, such as chickpeas, tahini (made from sesame seeds), lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt, are naturally gluten-free. However, it’s important to note that certain commercially prepared hummus brands may add additional ingredients or flavors that could potentially contain gluten.
Cross-contamination is also a consideration when it comes to gluten-free foods. If hummus is prepared in a facility that also processes gluten-containing ingredients or if shared equipment is used, there is a risk of cross-contamination.
what is the origin of hummus?
The exact origin of hummus is a topic of debate and is claimed by multiple cultures in the Middle East. Hummus has a long history, with roots dating back thousands of years. It is believed to have originated in the Levant region, which includes present-day Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, and parts of Israel.
The earliest recorded mention of a hummus-like dish can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where a similar mixture of mashed chickpeas, tahini, and spices was consumed. From there, it spread across the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, becoming a popular and staple food.
Hummus holds cultural and historical significance in various societies. It is considered a traditional Middle Eastern dish and holds a special place in Levantine, Arab, Israeli, and Mediterranean cuisines. In these regions, hummus is often served as part of mezze (appetizer) platters, alongside pita bread, falafel, and other dips.
what is celiac disease?
Celiac disease, also known as celiac sprue or gluten-sensitive enteropathy, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine. It is triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. When someone with celiac disease ingests gluten, their immune system reacts by attacking the small intestine, causing damage to the lining of the intestine and leading to various symptoms and complications.
The exact cause of celiac disease is not fully understood, but it is known to have a genetic component. People with certain genetic markers are more susceptible to developing the condition. Environmental factors, such as the introduction of gluten into the diet or certain infections, may also play a role in triggering the immune response.
Common symptoms of celiac disease include digestive issues such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and weight loss. However, the disease can manifest in various ways, and some individuals may experience non-gastrointestinal symptoms, including fatigue, anemia, skin rashes, joint pain, or neurological symptoms.
If left untreated, celiac disease can lead to long-term complications. The damage to the small intestine can impair the absorption of nutrients, leading to malnutrition and deficiencies of vital vitamins and minerals. It can also increase the risk of developing other autoimmune disorders, osteoporosis, infertility, certain cancers, and other health problems.
The primary treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all foods and products that contain gluten. With the elimination of gluten from the diet, the small intestine can heal, and symptoms usually improve. It is essential for individuals with celiac disease to carefully read food labels, be aware of hidden sources of gluten, and follow a gluten-free lifestyle to manage the condition effectively.
what are the ingredients of classic hummus
Traditional hummus typically includes the following ingredients:
Chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans): These are the main ingredient in hummus. They are cooked or canned and serve as the base of the dip.
Tahini: Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It adds a nutty flavor and helps give hummus its creamy texture.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness and tanginess to the hummus. It also helps balance the flavors.
Garlic: Minced or crushed garlic cloves are commonly used to add a savory and aromatic element to hummus. The amount of garlic can be adjusted to personal preference.
Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil is often drizzled on top of hummus as a finishing touch. It adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.
Salt: A pinch of salt is typically added to season the hummus. It brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Water: Water is often added to achieve the desired consistency of the hummus. It helps make the dip smoother and easier to spread or dip.
These are the basic traditional ingredients of hummus. However, there are many variations and additional ingredients that can be incorporated, such as cumin, paprika, roasted red peppers, parsley, or pine nuts, to add more depth and flavor. Hummus can be customized to personal taste preferences, and different regions may have their own unique twists on the classic recipe.
Gluten Free Hummus Brands
The good news is that most brands of hummus and hummus flavors are gluten free so buying hummus at grocery stores typically ins’t a problem. However, some may have gluten-containing ingredients, and that is why we are going to dive into brands that we know make gluten-free hummus. Here are some known brands that make hummus gluten-free in the united states:
Sabra: Sabra offers a wide range of gluten-free hummus varieties, clearly labeled on their packaging. Sabra Hummus has both classic flavors and unique options like roasted red pepper, pine nut, and roasted garlic.
Tribe: Tribe hummus offers gluten-free options and is known for their flavorful and creamy varieties. They have traditional flavors as well as unique options like roasted garlic, sriracha, and roasted pine nut.
Hope Foods: Hope Foods offers a range of gluten-free hummus flavors made from simple, organic ingredients. Their products are free from preservatives, artificial flavors, and colors.
Cedar’s: Cedar’s hummus is gluten-free and comes in various flavors, including classic, roasted red pepper, and garlic. They also offer organic and traditional varieties.
Boar’s Head: Boar’s Head hummus is gluten-free and available in classic flavors like traditional, roasted red pepper, and garlic. They also offer single-serve cups for convenient snacking.
Lantana: Lantana offers a variety of gluten-free hummus flavors, including classic, black bean, edamame, and sriracha carrot. They focus on unique and innovative flavor combinations.
Oasis: Oasis Mediterranean Cuisine produces gluten-free hummus made from all-natural ingredients. They have traditional flavors like original, roasted garlic, and roasted red pepper.
Wild Garden: Wild Garden offers gluten-free hummus in convenient single-serve packs. Their hummus flavors include traditional, roasted garlic, and sun-dried tomato.
Engine 2: Engine 2 provides gluten-free, plant-based hummus made from whole food ingredients. Their flavors include classic, roasted red pepper, and spicy.
Cava: Cava is a popular Mediterranean restaurant chain that also sells pre-packaged gluten-free hummus. They have various flavors, such as traditional, roasted red pepper, and spicy.
is hummus vegan?
Yes, hummus is generally considered vegan. The traditional ingredients used to make hummus, including chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and salt, are all plant-based and free from animal products. Therefore, hummus is a suitable food choice for individuals following a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle.
However, it’s important to note that some commercially prepared hummus brands may add additional ingredients or flavors that are not vegan-friendly. For example, certain varieties of hummus may contain dairy-based ingredients like yogurt or cheese. Additionally, flavored hummus options that incorporate meat or animal-derived products should be avoided if you adhere to a vegan diet.
what equipment do you need to make hummus?
To make hummus, you don’t need any specialized or complex equipment. Here are the basic tools you’ll need:
Food Processor or Blender: A food processor or a high-speed blender is the primary equipment for making hummus. It will help blend the ingredients into a smooth and creamy consistency. A food processor is generally preferred as it provides better control and texture, but a blender can also work well.
Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a mixing bowl to combine the ingredients before transferring them to the food processor or blender.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring the ingredients, such as chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and spices.
Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll need a knife and cutting board to chop and prepare any additional ingredients, such as garlic cloves or garnishes.
Spatula or Spoon: A spatula or spoon will help scrape down the sides of the food processor or blender and ensure all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Storage Container: If you plan to store the hummus, you’ll need a container with a tight-fitting lid to keep it fresh in the refrigerator.
These are the basic tools you’ll need to make hummus. However, feel free to adjust based on your preference and available equipment. For example, if you prefer a chunkier texture, you can use a potato masher instead of a food processor. Overall, making hummus is a straightforward process that doesn’t require any specialized or expensive equipment.
Homemade Gluten Free Hummus Recipes
Hummus is a great snack because it can take into account most common food allergies. Those with Celiac disease, a gluten intolerance (or a gluten sensitivity), dairy or lactose issues (most hummus does not have any dairy products) , or those on a plant-based diet. Hummus is made with simple ingredients that can leave you in good health! For exact health benefits, make sure to check the daily values (if using store-bought hummus brands, or packaged hummus).
If you want to try your hand at making homemade hummus, it really isn’t too hard! It is a healthy snack, can be made into small batches and is easy enough to store. The key ingredients are mentioned above however, everyone has their own version on how to make this creamy dip! Let’s look at some hummus recipes
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
If you love snacking on Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, you will be amazed at how much better it can taste when you make it yourself! This chickpea dip is smooth, creamy, flavorful, and simple to make at home. Click Here
HUMMUS BOWLS WITH ROASTED CAULIFLOWER
Roasted Cauliflower Hummus Bowls: Protein-packed hummus topped with roasted cauliflower and toasted pumpkin seeds for a deliciously different vegan bowl meal. Perfect for picnics, parties, and packed lunches! Click Here
Best Ever Creamy Beet Hummus
This Creamy Beet Hummus is bright pink and so, so fun to make and eat! It’s a classic hummus recipe, but the addition of beets pairs so well with the lemon, chickpeas, and tahini that you’ll be adding them into every batch you make from now on. Click Here
TURKISH TADKA HUMMUS
This Turkish-style hummus recipe, Turkish Tadka Hummus, incorporates the best flavours from the Middle East. This easy, quick and plant-based dip definitely has that extra kick with an added Tadka. Click Here
Avocado Hummus
Avocado hummus is the best version of hummus! It’s so rich, super creamy, and absolutely delicious! Think hummus meets guacamole, I can’t think of a combination that’s better. Click Here
INSTANT POT PUMPKIN HUMMUS (VEGAN, GLUTEN FREE}
Make the savoury Instant Pot Pumpkin Hummus with this no soak chickpeas recipe! With just a few pantry ingredients, you can easily make this spiced pumpkin hummus that is high in protein and healthy. Click Here
EDAMAME HUMMUS WITH JALAPEÑO AND CILANTRO
Edamame Hummus is a delicious spin on traditional hummus! It’s made without chickpeas and seasoned with jalapeño and cilantro for a fresh and spicy flavour. Click Here
Chestnut Hummus
This easy dip is made with chestnuts, tahini, garlic and lemon juice. It is super quick to prepare, naturally vegan and gluten-free. Click Here
Lebanese Hummus Recipe
Made with light tahini and garlic and topped with olive oil and zingy sumac, this homemade Middle Eastern hummus recipe never fails to wow us! Click Here
Spicy Hummus without Tahini Recipe
A spiced up Hummus prepared without tahini paste. For all those who like it hot. Click Here
Sriracha Carrot Hummus
Creamy, flavorful and delicious, this Sriracha Carrot Hummus is super easy to make and perfect to serve with lots of main dishes. Click Here
Instant Pot Hummus
This light, creamy and delicious dip is made from scratch using dry chickpeas that taste better than store-bought. Click Here
What are some good ways to eat gluten free hummus?
A great way to eat hummus dip is with gluten free pita chips, or with gluten free pita. If you cannot find either of those near where you live, be sure to use vegetables, falaffel, or crackers.
How can I store gluten free hummus?
Refrigeration: Hummus should be stored in an airtight container and placed in the refrigerator. The cool temperature helps slow down bacterial growth and maintains the quality of the hummus.
Airtight Container: Transfer the hummus into a clean, airtight container. Glass containers or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids work well for this purpose.
Surface Smoothing: Before storing, you can smooth the surface of the hummus with the back of a spoon and create a slight indentation. Then, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the top of the hummus to create a protective barrier. This can help prevent the top from drying out.
Refrigerator Shelf Life: Hummus can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. After that, its quality may start to decline, and it’s best to discard any leftovers.
Freezing: If you have a larger batch of hummus or want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze it. Place the hummus in a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion, and seal it tightly. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the hummus in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good stir before serving.
Storage Considerations: Avoid storing hummus at room temperature for an extended period, as it can spoil more quickly. Additionally, be mindful of any cross-contamination risks, especially if you’re using shared utensils or containers that may have come into contact with gluten-containing foods.
So, is hummus gluten free?
Yes, but always be sure to check certified gluten-free labels. You also have the option of making delicious hummus at home. This is always a great option! Homemade gluten free hummus guarantees that you can control what exactly goes into your hummus (especially if you are worried about healthy food and unsaturated fats). However, as we saw in this post, there are several gluten free hummus brands should you not want to make hummus at home! Either way, always remember to check the ingredient list if you are not making your own hummus.
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