Wholesome and Flavorful High Protein Hummus for a Nutritious Snack 

Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dip made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. It is a nutritious and delicious snack that is enjoyed by people all over the world. Recently, high protein hummus has become a trend, especially among fitness enthusiasts and those who follow a high protein diet. This article will explore the benefits of high protein hummus, its nutritional value, how it can be incorporated into your diet, and how to make it at home.

Nutritional Benefits of Hummus

Hummus is an excellent source of nutrients, including macronutrients such as carbohydrates, protein, and fat, and micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. One of the most significant benefits of hummus is that it is a low-calorie food, making it a perfect choice for weight management.

Chickpeas, the primary ingredient in hummus, are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. They also contain vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and folate. Tahini, which is made from sesame seeds, is rich in protein and healthy fats. Olive oil, which is a good source of monounsaturated fat, adds to the nutritional value of hummus.

Sources of high Protein Hummus

Hummus is an excellent source of plant-based protein. The protein content in hummus comes from the chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil. Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids that are required for the body to function correctly. Tahini, which is made from sesame seeds, is also a good source of protein. Olive oil contains small amounts of protein but is mainly a source of healthy fats.

Varieties of High Protein Hummus

High protein hummus is available in different varieties, such as traditional hummus, hummus with added protein, and alternative bean hummus. Traditional hummus contains chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice. Hummus with added protein may include additional sources of protein such as Greek yogurt, edamame, or hemp seeds. Alternative bean hummus may be made with different types of beans such as black beans or cannellini beans.

Nutritional Benefits of High Protein Hummus

Hummus is a nutrient-dense food that provides a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. Here are some of the key nutrients found in hummus:

Protein

Hummus is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. A 100-gram serving of hummus contains about 8 grams of protein.

Fiber

Hummus is also rich in fiber, which helps to regulate digestion and promote feelings of fullness. A 100-gram serving of hummus contains about 6 grams of fiber.

Vitamins and Minerals

Hummus is a good source of several important vitamins and minerals, including:

• Iron: Hummus is a good source of iron, which is essential for the production of red blood cells.
• Folate: Hummus contains folate, which is important for the production of DNA and for proper cell division.
• Magnesium: Hummus is a good source of magnesium, which is important for maintaining healthy bones and muscles.
• Zinc: Hummus contains zinc, which is essential for immune function and wound healing.

Enzymes

Hummus is made from chickpeas, which are a rich source of enzymes. Enzymes are important for breaking down food and aiding in digestion.

Overall, hummus is a healthy and nutritious food that provides a range of important nutrients for the body.

Health Benefits of Hummus

Hummus is not only delicious, but it also provides several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients. Some of the health benefits of hummus include:

1. Rich in plant-based protein: Hummus is made from chickpeas, which are a good source of plant-based protein. Consuming protein helps with building and repairing tissues in the body.
2. High in fiber: Chickpeas are also high in fiber, which helps with digestion and can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
3. Contains healthy fats: Hummus is typically made with olive oil, which is a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats. Consuming healthy fats can help with brain function and improve heart health.
4. Good source of vitamins and minerals: Hummus contains several essential vitamins and minerals such as folate, iron, magnesium, and vitamin B6. These nutrients play a vital role in maintaining good health.
5. Low glycemic index: The glycemic index (GI) measures how quickly foods raise blood sugar levels. Hummus has a low GI, which means it can help regulate blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy.
6. Can help with weight management: Hummus is a filling and satisfying food due to its protein and fiber content, which can help with weight management and reduce cravings for unhealthy snacks.

How to Make High Protein Hummus at Home

Making high protein hummus at home is easy and affordable. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make high protein hummus at home.

Ingredients Required

• 2 cups cooked chickpeas
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2-4 tablespoons water

Optional:

• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or edamame for added protein

Instructions in making high protein hummus

1. Rinse and drain the cooked chickpeas.
2. In a food processor, add the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
3. Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
4. If the mixture is too thick, add water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
5. For added protein, add Greek yogurt or edamame to the mixture and blend until smooth.
6. Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
7. Transfer the hummus to a serving dish and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, or chopped herbs.
8. Serve with fresh vegetables, pita bread, or as a spread on sandwiches.

Making different Color Protein Hummus

Making different colored hummus is a fun and creative way to add variety to your meals. Here are some tips on how to make different colored hummus at home:

Red hummus

Red hummus (Roasted Red Pepper): chickpeas, tahini, roasted red peppers, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and cumin.

Green hummus

Green hummus (Spinach and Artichoke): chickpeas, tahini, spinach, artichoke hearts, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.

Pink hummus

Pink hummus (Beetroot): chickpeas, tahini, cooked beets, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and cumin.

Orange hummus

Orange hummus (Carrot and Ginger): chickpeas, tahini, carrots, fresh ginger, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and cumin.

White hummus

White hummus (Cauliflower): chickpeas, tahini, roasted cauliflower, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and cumin.

Incorporating High Protein Hummus into Your Diet

High protein hummus can be enjoyed as a snack, a meal component, or a spread. Here are some ways you can incorporate high protein hummus into your diet:

As a Snack

• Dip fresh vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers into the hummus for a healthy and satisfying snack.
• Spread hummus on whole-grain crackers or rice cakes for a crunchy and protein-rich snack.
• Use hummus as a dip for baked pita chips or whole-wheat tortilla chips.

As a Meal Component

• Use hummus as a spread on sandwiches or wraps instead of mayo or other high-calorie condiments.
• Add hummus to your salad as a creamy and healthy dressing.
• Serve hummus as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and nutritious meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Sprinkle chopped herbs or spices on top of the hummus for added flavor.
• Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful and flavorful presentation.
• Serve hummus in a hollowed-out bell pepper or cucumber for a fun and colorful appetizer.

Precautions When Consuming High Protein Hummus

While high in protein it is generally safe for most people, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:

Allergic Reactions

Hummus contains sesame seeds, which can cause an allergic reaction in some people. If you are allergic to sesame seeds, avoid eating hummus.

Digestive Issues

Hummus is high in fiber, which can cause digestive issues such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea in some people. If you have digestive issues, start with a small amount of hummus and gradually increase the serving size.

Sodium Content

Some store-bought hummus brands contain high amounts of sodium. When purchasing hummus, check the label for the sodium content and choose brands with lower sodium levels.

Conclusion of Protein Hummus

High protein hummus is a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet. It is easy to make at home, and you can customize it to your preference. With its high protein content and other nutritional benefits, high protein hummus is an excellent choice for those who follow a high protein diet. Enjoy it as a snack, a meal component, or a spread and reap its many health benefits.