Are you a Mediterranean food lover? We are, too! You’re in luck because today, we’ll explore all things related to one of the best sides out there—Mediterranean hummus!
Atlanta’s blooming food scene has grown exponentially in the past few years, and we’re here to give the center stage to one of the best Mediterranean grill restaurants in the city—Pita Corner, whose main focus is offering high-quality ingredients and traditional recipes.
They take pride in delivering the various traditional flavors of Mediterranean cuisine while maintaining freshness and quality in their ingredients. That’s a recipe for success, don’t you think?
From the health benefits to the traditional recipe, we’ll dive into the amazing Mediterranean hummus and why your best bet is to get it in the iconic Pita Corner.
What is Mediterranean Hummus?
Let’s start with the basics. What is hummus? Well, in fact, the full name in Arabic would be hummus bi tahina which basically means “chickpeas.” Ha ha, were you expecting something more interesting? We were too, but it seems like the creators of this side didn’t put too much effort when they came up with the name.
So, in a nutshell, hummus is a creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. Did you know its origins date back to the 13th Century?
According to history, hummus originated in the Middle East, and the earliest written recipe was found in a Syrian cookbook. However, other recipes featuring chickpea purées were recorded in textbooks from Cairo, Egypt. This means that, although its origins aren’t fully certain, hummus was undeniably born in the Middle East.
With the passing of time, hummus spread to Greece and other countries around the Mediterranean, eventually becoming a staple food in the Levinant, where it is eaten as an appetizer or dip.
In recent decades, hummus has spread worldwide and become popular in many countries. It is often eaten with pita bread, vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter. Everything tastes better if you add hummus to it!
Why is it Healthy?
Mediterranean hummus is not only delicious but also healthy!
The main ingredient, chickpeas, is high in protein and fiber, which can help improve digestion and promote satiety, thereby managing weight. Tahini, made from sesame seeds, provides healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, which, due to their fiber content, help promote a healthy gut.
Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which improve cardiovascular health. Lastly, lemon juice and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties.
As you can see, all the ingredients have health-related properties, making it an excellent choice not only for its yummy flavor but also for its many health benefits.
Traditional Hummus Recipe and Variations
Next, we’ll show you the most basic recipe for hummus. Remember that you can combine it with anything you want: pita bread, fresh vegetables, chips, sandwiches, and the list goes on!
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt
- 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed for consistency)
- Paprika
- Fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Blend all the ingredients. Combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and salt in a food processor until smooth.
- Adjust the consistency. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Serve. Transfer to a bowl, and drizzle with additional olive oil. Garnish with paprika and parsley.
Creating a refreshing and delicious dip has never been so easy, don’t you think? But what happens if you already know the traditional hummus recipe like the back of your hand and you would like to explore other options? Here are some of our recommendations:
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: For a smoky, sweet flavor, add roasted red peppers to the basic hummus recipe.
- Avocado Hummus: Incorporate ripe avocado for a creamy texture and added nutrients.
- Beet Hummus: Blend in cooked beets for a vibrant color and earthy flavor.
- Herbed Hummus: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or dill for a fresh twist.
What do you think about these ideas? Would you dare to try them at home?
Conclusion: Don’t Miss The Chance of Tasting Hummus at Pita Corner
Atlanta’s vibrant food scene is filled with flavors from around the world and their rich cultures. When it comes to Mediterranean food, Pita Corner is the best option out there!
Their commitment to providing fresh ingredients and traditional flavors makes them stand out from the crowd. At Pita Corner, the customer comes first, and they make sure this is always the case.
Mediterranean hummus is a versatile dip that can enhance any meal, especially Mediterranean food like falafel or shawarma.
If you’d like to dive into a Mediterranean culinary experience and enjoy the rich and unique flavors of this ancient culture, visit Pita Corner! Their wide menu offers the best of the best. We assure you won’t be disappointed.
