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If you enjoy Mediterranean food, you’ve likely experienced the joy of eating hummus. This crowd favorite is featured on nearly 75% of Mediterranean menus but only makes its way onto 14% of menus across America. Whether you’re a fan of it already or you’re just about to dip into Mediterranean cuisine for the first time, here are five fun facts you should know about this nutritious dish.
We’ll start with a well-known fact: it primarily consists of chickpeas. Along with these nutrient-packed veggies, it is made with sesame paste, lemon juice, and garlic. However, other seasonings and toppings can be added for flavor. It will also vary slightly depending on where you eat it. After all, it is eaten throughout the globe and prepared in a myriad of different ways. Chickpeas contain both plant-based protein and fiber, along with other nutrients and minerals that make them not only delicious but good for you too. Eating chickpeas is linked to better blood sugar regulation and digestion, as well!
Though it’s a staple throughout countries along the Mediterranean coastline, this chickpea-based dish was invented in the Middle East, hundreds of years ago. The earliest mention of it was found in 13th-century Egypt. However, several Mediterranean nations have fought over who can claim the title of its land of origin. Whoever first invented the dish, it’s served with little variation across the Middle East. And, other countries have picked up the delicious texture of it and come up with their own dips, such as green lentil-hummus or avocado-hummus. As you travel across the globe, you’ll find many examples of its influence.
That’s right: the wars are a real thing. Though claims to fame have always been disputed among Mediterranean countries, Lebanon and Israel finally duked it out in the kitchen in 2010 when they fought over who could make the largest dish. The verdict? Lebanon created a 22,000-pound dish, more than double the 9,000-pound dish that Israel succeeded in creating. It took over 300 cooks to create the mammoth dish! It became a world record that hasn’t been beaten to this day. This isn’t the only culinary record Lebanon has set – they also hold the title for the largest falafel ball!
The next time you visit your favorite falafel restaurant, you might want to bring a date along with you. It is a natural aphrodisiac thanks to all of its nutrients, which include iron, magnesium, and potassium. Olive oil is also known to get the motor revving, and we include a little olive oil with each serving. This addition is great for Mediterranean salads in-house, but you might want to opt for Mediterranean take-out dishes instead 😉
It is a staple in any falafel restaurant thanks to its versatility. It can spice up any pita, but can also be incorporated into salads, chips, vegetables, and more. Try including it on a crudite board or with charcuterie. It’s delicious mixed with chicken or even eaten on its own! When you’re looking for healthy Mediterranean food, think about getting Mediterranean on the side. You never know what you might have lying around your house to dip in! Are you looking for the best Mediterranean food Houston has to offer? Try Aladdin’s the next time you crave the best food money can buy. We have locations in both Montrose and Oak Forest!
What is hummus made of?
Hummus is made primarily from chickpeas blended with sesame paste (tahini), lemon juice, and garlic. Additional seasonings, toppings, and regional variations exist worldwide, but these four ingredients form the traditional base. Chickpeas provide plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals that make hummus as nutritious as it is delicious.
Is hummus healthy?
Yes. Hummus is one of the most nutrient-dense dips available. It delivers plant-based protein, dietary fiber, iron, magnesium, and potassium. Regular consumption of chickpeas — its primary ingredient — is linked to better blood sugar regulation, improved digestion, and sustained energy levels.
Where did hummus originate?
Hummus originated in the Middle East, with the earliest recorded mention found in 13th-century Egypt. While it has become a staple across Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, multiple nations including Lebanon and Israel have historically disputed its true country of origin.
What is the world record for the largest hummus dish?
Lebanon holds the world record for the largest hummus dish ever made. In 2010, more than 300 cooks came together to produce a 22,000-pound serving — more than double the 9,000-pound dish created by Israel in the same competition. The record has not been broken since.
Is hummus an aphrodisiac?
Hummus is considered a natural aphrodisiac due to its rich content of iron, magnesium, and potassium. Olive oil — commonly drizzled on top — has also long been associated with similar properties, making hummus a uniquely functional food beyond its flavor.
Where can I find the best hummus in Houston? Aladdin Mediterranean Cuisine serves fresh, authentic hummus at two Houston locations — Montrose (912 Westheimer Rd) and Garden Oaks (1737 W 34th St). Available in classic, spicy, and caramelized varieties, it’s one of the restaurant’s most beloved menu staples.
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