Hummus, the delicious and nutritious dip or spread made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, has become a staple in many cuisines around the world. Its creamy texture and rich flavor have captured the hearts of foodies and health enthusiasts alike. But have you ever wondered who makes the best hummus in the world? In this article, we’ll embark on a journey to explore the origins of hummus, its evolution, and the top contenders for the title of the world’s best hummus.
A Brief History of Hummus
Hummus has its roots in the Middle East, where chickpeas have been a staple crop for thousands of years. The earliest known evidence of hummus-like dips dates back to the 13th century, during the Crusades. However, it’s believed that hummus was consumed in various forms long before that. The word “hummus” is derived from the Arabic word for chickpeas, and the dip was traditionally made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice.
Over time, hummus spread throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, with each country adding its own twist to the recipe. In Lebanon, hummus is often served as a mezze, accompanied by pita bread and vegetables. In Israel, hummus is a staple in many restaurants and households, often served with falafel and pita bread. In Greece, hummus is known as “revithosalata” and is made with chickpeas, onions, garlic, and olive oil.
The Evolution of Hummus
In recent years, hummus has experienced a surge in popularity worldwide, with many restaurants and food manufacturers offering their own versions of the dip. This has led to a proliferation of different flavors and textures, from classic to roasted red pepper, spinach, and even chocolate hummus.
The rise of hummus has also led to a debate about its authenticity. Some argue that traditional hummus should only be made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, while others believe that innovation and creativity are essential to keeping the dip fresh and exciting.
The Top Contenders for the World’s Best Hummus
So, who makes the best hummus in the world? We’ve scoured the globe to find the top contenders, from traditional Middle Eastern restaurants to modern food manufacturers.
Abu Hasan in Tel Aviv, Israel
Abu Hasan is a small, family-owned restaurant in Tel Aviv’s Jaffa neighborhood that has been serving some of the city’s best hummus for over 50 years. Their classic hummus is made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, and is served with a side of pita bread and vegetables.
What sets Abu Hasan apart is their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Their hummus is made fresh throughout the day, and their chickpeas are cooked to perfection in a large pot over an open flame.
Awards and Accolades
Abu Hasan has received widespread critical acclaim for their hummus, including a feature in the New York Times and a spot on the list of the world’s best hummus by CNN.
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| New York Times Feature | 2019 |
| CNN’s List of the World’s Best Hummus | 2020 |
L’As du Fallafel in Paris, France
L’As du Fallafel is a popular Jewish deli in Paris’s Marais neighborhood that has been serving some of the city’s best hummus for over 20 years. Their classic hummus is made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, and is served with a side of pita bread and vegetables.
What sets L’As du Fallafel apart is their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and innovative cooking methods. Their hummus is made with a special type of chickpea that is only grown in the south of France, and their tahini is imported from Lebanon.
Awards and Accolades
L’As du Fallafel has received widespread critical acclaim for their hummus, including a feature in the Guardian and a spot on the list of the world’s best hummus by the Huffington Post.
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Guardian Feature | 2018 |
| Huffington Post’s List of the World’s Best Hummus | 2019 |
Sabra Dipping Company in New York, USA
Sabra Dipping Company is a leading manufacturer of hummus and other dips in the United States. Their classic hummus is made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, and is available in stores across the country.
What sets Sabra apart is their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and innovative manufacturing methods. Their hummus is made with a special type of chickpea that is only grown in the United States, and their tahini is imported from Lebanon.
Awards and Accolades
Sabra has received widespread critical acclaim for their hummus, including a feature in the Wall Street Journal and a spot on the list of the world’s best hummus by USA Today.
| Award | Year |
|---|---|
| Wall Street Journal Feature | 2017 |
| USA Today’s List of the World’s Best Hummus | 2018 |
The Verdict
So, who makes the best hummus in the world? While it’s difficult to say definitively, our top contenders are certainly among the best. Abu Hasan’s commitment to traditional cooking methods and fresh ingredients makes their hummus a standout, while L’As du Fallafel’s innovative approach to ingredients and cooking methods sets them apart. Sabra’s commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and innovative manufacturing methods makes their hummus a leader in the industry.
Ultimately, the best hummus is a matter of personal preference. Whether you like your hummus classic and traditional or innovative and adventurous, there’s a brand out there for you.
Conclusion
Hummus is a delicious and nutritious dip or spread that has captured the hearts of foodies and health enthusiasts around the world. From its origins in the Middle East to its evolution and proliferation around the globe, hummus has become a staple in many cuisines. While it’s difficult to say definitively who makes the best hummus in the world, our top contenders are certainly among the best. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, there’s a brand of hummus out there for you.
So, who do you think makes the best hummus in the world? Let us know in the comments!
What is the Great Hummus Debate?
The Great Hummus Debate is a longstanding argument over which country or region makes the best hummus in the world. The debate typically centers around the Middle East, where hummus originated, with countries such as Lebanon, Israel, and Palestine all claiming to be the birthplace of this popular dip.
The debate is not just about the taste, but also about the cultural significance and historical roots of hummus. Each country has its own unique recipe and preparation method, which can vary greatly from one another. The Great Hummus Debate is a celebration of the diversity and richness of Middle Eastern cuisine, and it continues to be a topic of discussion among food enthusiasts and locals alike.
What are the main ingredients of hummus?
The main ingredients of hummus are chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. These ingredients are typically blended together to create a smooth and creamy dip. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients such as paprika, cumin, or parsley, but the core ingredients remain the same.
The quality of the ingredients can greatly affect the taste and texture of the hummus. For example, using fresh and high-quality chickpeas can result in a smoother and more flavorful hummus. Similarly, using a good quality tahini can add a rich and nutty flavor to the dip.
Who is credited with inventing hummus?
The origin of hummus is unclear, and it is difficult to attribute its invention to a single person or country. However, it is widely believed that hummus originated in the Middle East, where chickpeas have been a staple ingredient for thousands of years.
Some food historians argue that hummus was first made by the ancient Egyptians, who used chickpeas as a source of protein. Others claim that it was the Lebanese who perfected the recipe, adding tahini and garlic to create the creamy and flavorful dip we know today.
What is the difference between Lebanese and Israeli hummus?
Lebanese and Israeli hummus are two of the most well-known and popular types of hummus. While both recipes share the same core ingredients, there are some key differences between the two. Lebanese hummus is typically made with a higher proportion of tahini, which gives it a richer and creamier texture.
Israeli hummus, on the other hand, is often made with a higher proportion of chickpeas, which makes it thicker and more rustic. Israeli hummus may also include additional ingredients such as paprika or cumin, which give it a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I make hummus at home?
Yes, making hummus at home is relatively easy and only requires a few ingredients. To make hummus, simply blend together chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil in a food processor or blender. You can also add additional ingredients such as paprika or parsley to give it extra flavor.
One of the benefits of making hummus at home is that you can customize the recipe to your taste. For example, you can add more garlic or lemon juice to give it a stronger flavor. You can also experiment with different ingredients, such as roasted garlic or sun-dried tomatoes, to create a unique and delicious flavor.
What are some popular variations of hummus?
There are many popular variations of hummus, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Some popular variations include roasted garlic hummus, which is made with roasted garlic for a deeper and richer flavor. Another popular variation is spicy hummus, which is made with hot peppers or chili flakes for an extra kick.
Other variations of hummus include black bean hummus, which is made with black beans instead of chickpeas, and edamame hummus, which is made with edamame for a higher protein content. These variations offer a delicious and creative twist on the traditional hummus recipe.
How do I store hummus?
Hummus can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. To store hummus, simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. You can also freeze hummus for up to six months, which is a great way to preserve it for later use.
When storing hummus, it’s essential to keep it away from light and heat, which can cause it to spoil. You should also give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate during storage.