Hummus, the creamy, dreamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, has become a staple in modern kitchens. It’s a healthy snack, a satisfying spread, and a versatile ingredient. But what happens when you enthusiastically buy or make a batch that’s larger than you can realistically devour with pita bread and vegetables? Fear not, hummus hoarders! There’s a world of delicious possibilities waiting to be explored beyond the classic dip. This article delves into creative and innovative ways to use your leftover hummus, transforming it into delicious meals, snacks, and even desserts.
Hummus as a Culinary Base: Building Blocks for Flavor
Hummus’s rich texture and savory flavor make it an excellent base for countless dishes. Its inherent creaminess provides a satisfying mouthfeel while its balanced flavor profile complements a wide range of ingredients.
Elevating Everyday Dishes: Hummus as a Flavor Enhancer
Think of hummus as a secret weapon to inject flavor and moisture into your everyday meals. A dollop can transform simple dishes into something special.
One of the easiest ways to utilize excess hummus is as a sandwich or wrap spread. It’s a healthier and more flavorful alternative to mayonnaise or butter, adding a Middle Eastern twist to your lunchtime favorites. Try it with turkey, avocado, and sprouts, or go vegetarian with grilled vegetables and feta cheese.
Hummus also shines as a salad dressing. Thin it out with a little lemon juice, water, or olive oil to create a creamy and flavorful dressing that coats your greens perfectly. Add a pinch of cumin or paprika for extra depth. It pairs exceptionally well with salads featuring cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.
Consider adding a spoonful of hummus to your scrambled eggs or omelets. It adds a creamy richness and a subtle nutty flavor that elevates this breakfast staple. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor combinations.
Hummus in Heartier Meals: Adding Depth and Texture
Beyond simple spreads and dressings, hummus can be incorporated into more substantial dishes, adding both flavor and nutritional value.
Use hummus as a sauce for pasta. For a quick and easy meal, toss cooked pasta with hummus, some sauteed vegetables, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. You can also blend hummus with roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a more complex sauce.
Hummus can also be used as a filling for stuffed vegetables. Hollow out bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes and fill them with a mixture of hummus, cooked quinoa, chopped vegetables, and herbs. Bake until tender and enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal.
It can also be incorporated into meatloaf or veggie burgers. Adding hummus to the mixture helps bind the ingredients together and adds moisture and flavor. It’s a great way to sneak in extra fiber and protein.
Creative Hummus Transformations: Beyond the Expected
Now, let’s move beyond the usual and explore some truly innovative ways to use your leftover hummus. These ideas will surprise your taste buds and demonstrate the remarkable versatility of this beloved dip.
Hummus-Based Soups and Stews: Adding Creaminess and Body
Hummus can be a fantastic addition to soups and stews, adding creaminess and body without the need for heavy cream or dairy.
Stir a few spoonfuls of hummus into your favorite vegetable soup for a richer, more satisfying texture. It works particularly well with soups featuring tomatoes, lentils, or spinach. The hummus will thicken the soup and add a subtle nutty flavor.
Create a creamy tomato soup by blending roasted tomatoes with hummus and vegetable broth. Season with your favorite herbs and spices and garnish with a swirl of olive oil.
Hummus in Baking: Unexpectedly Delicious Results
Believe it or not, hummus can be used in baking, adding moisture and a subtle nutty flavor to cakes, muffins, and even cookies.
Add a few tablespoons of hummus to your favorite chocolate cake recipe for a moist and fudgy treat. The hummus will enhance the chocolate flavor and add a subtle depth. You can also use hummus in muffins and quick breads, replacing some of the oil or butter.
For a savory option, try adding hummus to your homemade bread dough. It adds a unique flavor and texture to the bread. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create a signature loaf.
Sweet Surprises: Hummus in Desserts
The idea of hummus in desserts might seem strange, but it can actually work surprisingly well. The key is to balance the savory flavors of the hummus with sweet ingredients.
Create a hummus-based chocolate mousse by blending hummus with cocoa powder, maple syrup, and a touch of vanilla extract. The result is a surprisingly decadent and satisfying dessert that is also relatively healthy.
Preserving and Storing Hummus: Maximizing Freshness
To make the most of your homemade or store-bought hummus, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor.
Store hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should last for 3-5 days. To prevent a dry film from forming on the surface, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top before refrigerating.
For longer storage, you can freeze hummus. However, be aware that freezing may slightly alter the texture. To freeze, transfer the hummus to a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Flavor Variations: Customizing Your Hummus Creations
One of the best things about hummus is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavor to suit your taste preferences.
Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce. Add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor or sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as cumin, coriander, or paprika.
For a sweeter flavor, add roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash to your hummus. You can also blend in some roasted garlic for a richer, more complex flavor.
Recipes to Inspire: Putting Hummus to Work
Here are a few specific recipes to get you started on your hummus utilization journey.
Hummus Pasta with Roasted Vegetables
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta
- 1 cup hummus
- 2 cups roasted vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta is cooking, roast vegetables in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together hummus, olive oil, and lemon juice.
- Add cooked pasta and roasted vegetables to the bowl and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Hummus Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup hummus
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together hummus, butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in chocolate chips.
- Drop by rounded tablespoons onto baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
By embracing these creative uses for your leftover hummus, you can minimize waste, expand your culinary horizons, and discover new and delicious ways to enjoy this versatile ingredient. From simple spreads to surprising desserts, the possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own favorite hummus transformations.
Can I use hummus as a spread instead of just a dip?
Hummus makes an excellent and nutritious spread alternative to mayonnaise or butter. Its creamy texture and savory flavor add depth to sandwiches, wraps, and even toast. Experiment by spreading it on your favorite type of bread, then layering with vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and sprouts, or adding deli meats for a satisfying lunch.
Consider hummus as a base for open-faced sandwiches. Spread it on toasted sourdough, then top with roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vibrant and healthy snack or light meal. You can also use it as a spread on crackers or pita bread for a quick and easy appetizer.
How can I incorporate hummus into my breakfast routine?
Hummus can add a boost of protein and flavor to your breakfast routine. Try spreading it on whole-wheat toast and topping it with a fried egg and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a savory and satisfying start to your day. Alternatively, use it as a base for avocado toast, adding a creamy layer beneath the avocado for added richness.
Hummus can also be blended into smoothies for a surprising nutritional kick. The subtle savory flavor complements fruits like bananas and berries while providing a healthy dose of protein and fiber. Add a spoonful to your favorite smoothie recipe for a thicker, more filling breakfast beverage.
Is hummus a good ingredient in salad dressings?
Hummus can be transformed into a delicious and creamy salad dressing. Its rich texture helps to emulsify the dressing, creating a smooth and flavorful coating for your greens. Combine it with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and your favorite herbs for a vibrant and healthy dressing.
Experiment with different ratios of ingredients to find the perfect balance of flavors for your taste. A thinner dressing can be achieved by adding more lemon juice or water. Consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup for a hint of sweetness.
Can I bake with hummus? What types of recipes work best?
Hummus can be a surprisingly effective ingredient in certain baked goods. It adds moisture and a subtle savory flavor, particularly well-suited for savory muffins, bread, and even certain types of cookies. When using hummus in baking, reduce the amount of other fats or liquids in the recipe to compensate for its moisture content.
Savory muffins and breads are excellent candidates for incorporating hummus. Think cornbread muffins with a creamy, slightly tangy flavor from the hummus. You can also add hummus to cookie recipes to create a chewier texture, especially in spiced cookies or those with nutty flavors that complement the savory element.
Does hummus pair well with pasta dishes?
Hummus makes a fantastic creamy sauce for pasta, offering a healthier alternative to traditional cream-based sauces. Simply thin it out with pasta water or broth to achieve your desired consistency, then toss it with cooked pasta. Adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or roasted peppers creates a complete and flavorful meal.
Enhance the flavor by incorporating herbs like basil, parsley, or dill. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness. Consider using whole-wheat pasta for an even healthier and more satisfying dish.
How can I use hummus to enhance vegetarian dishes?
Hummus is a versatile ingredient that can elevate many vegetarian dishes. Use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant, combining it with cooked grains, vegetables, and herbs for a hearty and flavorful meal. It also serves as an excellent binder for veggie burgers, adding moisture and holding the ingredients together.
Hummus can also be used to create delicious vegetarian wraps and tacos. Spread it on tortillas and fill with your favorite vegetables, beans, and toppings. Its creamy texture complements the other ingredients and adds a boost of protein and flavor, making it a satisfying and nutritious option.
Can I freeze hummus to prolong its shelf life?
Yes, hummus can be frozen, although the texture may change slightly upon thawing. To minimize texture changes, store it in an airtight container, leaving some headspace to allow for expansion. Consider freezing it in smaller portions for easier thawing and use.
When thawing frozen hummus, let it thaw gradually in the refrigerator. Once thawed, give it a good stir to restore its creamy consistency. You might need to add a little olive oil or lemon juice to revive its flavor and texture. While the texture may not be exactly the same as fresh hummus, it will still be perfectly acceptable for most culinary uses.