Hummus, a versatile and nutritious spread made primarily from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, has become a staple snack... It's creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect addition to sandwiches, wraps, and even as a dip for vegetables.
One of the best things about hummus is its ability to pair well with different types of sauces, enhancing its flavor profile and adding an extra kick. Which is why we're going to talk about what sauces pair well with hummus, and how you can use these combinations to elevate your snacking experience.
What is Hummus Typically Eaten With?
Before we dive straight into the different sauces to use with humus, let's first talk about some of the common things people eat with their hummus.
Pita bread is our first choice, as it's the classic accompaniment to hummus, and its soft texture and mild flavor make it an excellent base for the creamy spread.
Another common dipper are tortilla chips or crackers. Although not the healthiest option, they provide a nice crunch and work well with the creamy consistency of hummus.
For a healthier option besides chips, you can also use raw vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. These not only add some freshness to your snack but also offer a great contrast in texture when dipped into hummus.
For a few other ideas , you can also use hummus:
With Pretzels
In a chicken wrap
Zucchini
With hard boiled eggs
In sandwiches
On a flatbread
A variety of different fruits
Olives
As you can see, hummus is extremely versatile and can be paired with a wide range of foods!
Sauces that are Good With Hummus
Now let's get to the good stuff - sauces that pair well with hummus. Usually hummus is topped with a drizzle of olive oil, some paprika, and maybe some parsley for added flavor.
However, there are many other sauces that can complement hummus and take it to the next level.
Hot Sauce
Of course, our first pick is going to be hot sauce... because who doesn't love a good kick of spice? Hot sauce works especially well with hummus variations that have some heat to them, such as spicy red pepper or jalapeno hummus.
But it's also great if they have no heat at all, as the tanginess and spiciness of hot sauce pairs well with the creaminess of hummus.
If you want some recommendations for hot sauces with your hummus, we suggest trying Moroccan Maddness which is a hot sauce inspired from Moroccan flavor and spices... which of course is perfect with hummus, since Middle Eastern flavors are typically used in hummus recipes.
If that isn't your style, check out this guide on the different types of hot sauces to help you find the right one!
Tahini
We can't talk about hummus without mentioning its primary ingredient - tahini. This sesame seed paste is what gives hummus its distinct flavor, and it also makes a great sauce when mixed with some lemon juice, garlic, and water to thin it out (if needed).
Tahini sauce pairs well with any type of hummus, adding an extra nutty and tangy element to the already flavorful spread. We highly recommend it!
Although tahini is usually an ingredient in hummus, it's important that we mention it since there are still hummus recipes without it.
Pesto
Pesto, a sauce made from basil, garlic, and olive oil, is another great option to pair with hummus. The herby and garlicky flavors of pesto work well with the nutty flavor of chickpeas in hummus.
You can either mix some pesto into your hummus before serving, or simply top it with a dollop of pesto for an extra burst of flavor.
Tzatziki
Tzatziki, a Greek sauce made from yogurt, cucumber, and herbs, is another classic pairing with hummus. The cool and refreshing flavors of tzatziki complement the creaminess of hummus and add some tanginess to the mix.
Yum!
Harissa
Last but certainly not least, we have harissa. Now, if you have never had it before, it's a spicy and flavorful North African chili paste made from red peppers, garlic, and spices.
Let's just say it's simply delicious.
Similar to hot sauce, harissa adds a kick of heat to hummus and can take it to the next level in terms of flavor (and of course heat).
Next time you're in the mood for some hummus, try adding a dash of harissa on top - trust us, you won't regret it!
FAQS
Can I mix multiple sauces with hummus?
Absolutely! In fact, combining different sauces can create unique and delicious flavors. For example, try mixing hot sauce and tahini for a spicy yet nutty kick.
Are there any sauces that don't pair well with hummus?
It's all about personal preference, but in general, we would avoid using sweet sauces or dressings with hummus as they may not complement the savory flavors well. But feel free to experiment and see what works for you!
Is hummus and mayonnaise a good combo?
Again, it's all about personal preference, but traditionally hummus is not paired with mayonnaise. On the flip side, we would recommend using hummus as a substitute for mayonnaise in sandwiches or wraps if you're looking for a healthier alternative.
Can I use hummus as a salad dressing?
Absolutely! Simply thin out the hummus with some water or lemon juice to create a creamy dressing, and top it off with your favorite herbs and spices. It's a great way to add some flavor and nutrition to your salads.
What level of hot sauce heat should I use with hummus?
It completely depends on your heat tolerance and preference. However, we think that hummus is perfect for those extra hot hot sauces. Because of the taste and texture of the hummus, it balances out the heat and cuts right through it. Making hummus and super spicy hot sauce a perfect match.
What Are You Putting on Your Hummus?
Hummus's versatility makes it an excellent addition to any meal or snack. Whether you prefer pairing it with a variety of dippers, experimenting with different sauces, or incorporating it into your favorite recipes, hummus's creamy texture and rich flavors provide quite a lot of different possibilities.
From the traditional touch of olive oil and paprika to the bold heat of hot sauce or harissa, there's no shortage of ways to enhance your hummus experience.
Let everyone else know what you're mixing, dipping, and topping your hummus with so they can try it too!
Share your hummus creations below in the comments.