Hummus

Hummus is a smooth and creamy dip. It comes from the Middle East, where people have eaten it for hundreds of years. It is made by mashing up chickpeas with lemon juice, garlic, and a seed paste called tahini. Hummus tastes great with pita bread and veggies.

What Is in Hummus

The main ingredient in hummus is the chickpea, also called a garbanzo bean. Chickpeas are small, round beans with a nutty taste. To make hummus, cooks blend chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and olive oil. The mix becomes smooth and creamy. Some people add extra flavors like red pepper or herbs.

Eating Hummus

People scoop up hummus with soft, warm pita bread. It is also tasty with carrot sticks, cucumbers, or crackers. Hummus can be spread on sandwiches instead of butter or mayo. It is a healthy snack full of protein and fiber. You can find hummus in grocery stores all over the world now.

Fun Facts

• There is a world record for the biggest bowl of hummus, made in Lebanon.
• May 13 is International Hummus Day.
• Hummus means 'chickpeas' in the Arabic language.

Did You Know?

Chickpeas have been grown and eaten by people for over 10,000 years.