Today is International Hummus Day! Hummus is one of the best dips ever! It is enjoyed in the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Due to the rise of the popularity of hummus in the West, this delicious dip is now enjoyed everywhere in the world.
Hummus contains mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon, olive oil, salt, and garlic. It is consumed along with pita bread, kebbe, or french fries. Some people like to eat it with carrots. Hummus is an indispensable part of the authentic Lebanese mezza.
Lebanese people love hummus so much that Lebanon broke the
of the largest hummus bowl. It weighed 10,432 kilograms. This bowl broke the previous record which was set by Israel. Lebanon and Israel have been arguing on the origin of this Middle Eastern dish for a long time. “Lebanon has been seeking approval from the European Union to register hummus as a National Dish,” according to
. In fact, Greece
claimed legal rights over feta cheese
in 2005 when it won Europe’s top court ruled that it’s a traditional Greek dish. Since it’s International Hummus Day, it might be a good idea to eat hummus and learn about its health benefits!
Boosts your energy
Chickpeas contain starch which is a complex carbohydrate that takes an extended period of time to break down once consumed, according to
. Chickpeas provide you with time released energy meaning that it delivers you small amounts of energy over time.
Good source of plant-based protein
Chickpea, which is the main ingredient of hummus, is an excellent protein source.
High in vitamins and minerals
Chickpeas: iron, folate, phosphorus and vitamin B Tahini: copper, magnesium, zinc, iron, phosphorus and calcium Lemon: Vitamin C
Protects heart health
Olive oil and sesame seeds help prevent cardiovascular diseases by improving blood pressure levels, glucose metabolism and reducing harmful cholesterol.
Boosts bone health
Sesame seeds, used in making tahini, are an excellent source of minerals that increase bone density. These minerals are zinc, copper, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron and selenium. We are not surprised that hummus has so many health benefits as studies show that following a Mediterranean diet could prevent people from developing dementia. The reason why the Mediterranean cuisine could prevent people from developing dementia is that it is high in antioxidants which fight brain damage. This diet is full of proteins, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, wheat, and nuts.
Lemon juice, olive oil, and sesame seeds contain antioxidants which makes hummus a dish that improves our physical and mental health! Happy International Hummus Day!
