Homemade Hummus – White Bean or Classic Chickpea

Ideas for How to Use Hummus Besides a Dip

Here are some ideas for using hummus other than as a dip for veggies, fresh pita or homemade pita crisps – although that continues to be my all time favorite!

1. Sandwich & Toast Spread: Use hummus as a spread for toast, sandwiches or wraps. It adds a creamy texture and a flavorful twist to your usual sandwich ingredients.
2. Bowl Topping: Spoon homemade hummus over grain bowls, Buddha bowls, or salads for an extra protein boost and a burst of savory flavor.
3. Veggie Burger Base: Mix hummus into veggie burger patties for added creaminess and a delicious flavor. It can also serve as a binder.
4. Stuffed Vegetables: Use as a stuffing for vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Bake until the vegetables are tender for a tasty appetizer or side dish.
5. Pasta Sauce: Thin hummus with a bit of water or broth and toss it with hot pasta for a quick and easy creamy pasta sauce.
6. Pizza Base: Spread hummus on pizza crust as an alternative to traditional tomato sauce. Top with your favorite veggies, cheese, and protein.
7. Dressing or Sauce: Mix with lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs to create a flavorful dressing for salads or a sauce for grilled meats and vegetables.
8. Sauce for Roasted Vegetables: Spread hummus on a serving platter in a rustic, non-precise way and top with freshly roasted vegetables. Drizzle with a little olive oil, chopped fresh herbs and maybe paprika or sesame seeds.
9. Stir into Soups: Add a dollop of hummus to soups and stews for a creamy texture and a boost of protein.

How to Freeze Hummus

1. Prepare Hummus: Make sure your hummus is fresh and well-blended before freezing.
2. Choose a Freezer-Safe Container: Select airtight, freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion as the hummus freezes. While you need some space for expansion, use a container that is just the right size, too much air space can lead to freezer burn.
3. Portion the Hummus: Divide the hummus into smaller portions based on how much you’re likely to use at once. This makes it easier to thaw only the amount you need without repeatedly exposing the entire batch to temperature changes.
4. Smooth the Surface: If possible, smooth the surface of the hummus in each container. This minimizes the surface area exposed to air, helping to prevent freezer burn and maintain better quality.
5. Label and Date: Clearly label each container or bag with the date of freezing. This helps you keep track of how long the hummus has been in the freezer.
6. Remove Air and Seal: If using resealable plastic bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing. If using containers, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the hummus before sealing the container to minimize air exposure.
7. Freeze Quickly: Place the containers or bags in the freezer. Hummus freezes well, but the quicker it freezes, the better the quality will be when you thaw it.
8. Keep & Use: Within 3-6 months.

Thawing and Using Frozen Hummus:

1. Thaw in the Refrigerator: Move the desired portion of frozen hummus to the refrigerator the night before you plan to use it. Thawing in the refrigerator helps maintain the texture and flavor. OR thaw in your lunch bag or backpack and eat within 3-4 hours, less if your air temperature is hot.
2. Stir Well: Once thawed, give the hummus a good stir to help restore its creamy consistency.
3. Adjust Consistency if Necessary: If the texture is not as smooth as you’d like, you can blend the thawed hummus in a food processor or blender to achieve a creamier consistency.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Use the thawed hummus as you normally would, whether as a dip, spread, or ingredient in various recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Hummus