I have always had an appreciation for hummus, but when I traveled to Israel and experienced freshly made hummus the traditional way, my life was forever changed. There are entire restaurants in Israel that solely make hummus and you can order it with a wide variety of delicious vegetables, or just classically plain which is also a huge hit. As my best friend and I traveled around Israel for close to a week, we would stop into these little restaurants probably once a day that spring. As soon as I got back, I couldn’t wait to try to recreate the creamy, filling hummus we had there. 

Not only is hummus absolutely delicious and incredibly satisfying, there is something special about fresh farmers market veggies served on a platter with warm hummus. Bonus points if it has a hint of the sea like we make it here at Nautical Farms. It's a perfect snack pairing or even a lazy dinner that only takes about fifteen minutes to make. 

You can use either Organic Sugar Kelp Flakes or Organic Alaria Flakes in this recipe, however, we advise if you use sugar kelp to use a bit less sea salt, as our sugar kelp tends to be more salty than alaria. You can also enjoy this hummus warm or cold. Either way, this is sure to be a crowd pleaser. We recommend using your heart to measure the garlic as well. 

Garlic and kelp are two superfoods that not only add flavor to your hummus, but also provide numerous health benefits. 

 

benefits of garlic

Garlic, also known as the "stinking rose," is not only beloved for its aromatic flavor but also renowned for its health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, garlic helps combat harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and supporting cellular health. Moreover, studies have shown that garlic can aid in promoting heart health by lowering blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels, ultimately reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, garlic has immune-boosting properties, making it an excellent ally in fighting off infections and bolstering the body's defense mechanisms.

 

benefits of kelp

Kelp, a type of seaweed, is a nutritional powerhouse packed with essential minerals and compounds. One of its prominent components is iodine, a vital element for maintaining a healthy thyroid gland. Adequate iodine intake supports the production of thyroid hormones, which play a crucial role in regulating metabolism and ensuring proper organ function. Kelp is also an excellent source of iron, which is essential for red blood cell production and preventing anemia. Furthermore, kelp contains a variety of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can aid in reducing inflammation and protecting the body from oxidative damage.

Now, let's explore some additional tips and variations to elevate your hummus experience:

Roasted Garlic: For a milder and sweeter garlic flavor, consider roasting the garlic cloves before adding them to the hummus. Simply drizzle the garlic cloves with olive oil, wrap them in foil, and roast in the oven until soft and golden. The roasted garlic will blend smoothly into the hummus, adding depth to its taste.

Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: To add a burst of color and a slightly smoky taste, include some roasted red peppers in the hummus mixture. Roast the peppers in the oven until their skin blackens, then remove the skin and seeds before adding them to the food processor with the other ingredients.

Herb Infusion: Experiment with various fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil to infuse your hummus with aromatic flavors. A handful of fresh herbs added during blending can elevate the taste and provide a vibrant touch.

Nutty Additions: For added texture and nutrition, consider incorporating toasted pine nuts, sesame seeds, or even chopped walnuts into the hummus. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also provide a dose of healthy fats and essential nutrients.

Spiced Hummus: If you prefer a spicier kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can be the perfect addition. Adjust the level of spiciness to your taste preference.

Hummus as a Base: While hummus is traditionally served as a dip, it can also be used as a versatile base for sandwiches, wraps, and salad dressings. Spread it on whole-grain bread and add fresh veggies for a nutritious and satisfying lunch option.

 

Prep Time: 10 mins

Makes: 1 1/2 cups  

you'll need:

• 1 ½ cups of cooked chickpeas or 1 can of chickpeas
• 1 large lemon
• 1/4 cup of tahini, well-stirred 
• 1 tbsp of Organic Sugar Kelp Flakes or Organic Alaria Flakes
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp of ground cumin
• 2 to 3 tablespoons of water from chickpeas (more as needed)
• Sea salt to taste
• Dash of ground paprika 

 

directions:

In a food processor or blender, combine tahini and half of the lemon juice and blend until your tahini is creamy. 

Next, add in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic, cumin, sea salt, kelp or alaria flakes and the remainder of the lemon juice and blend again until smooth. 

Add in half of the canned or cooked chickpeas to the mixture and blend. As you add in more chickpea, more liquid may need to be added to keep the right consistency. Use the water from the chickpea can, or from the cooked chickpeas. Blend each time you add more ingredients. 

If you used Alaria, you may want to add more sea salt, so taste and adjust as needed. Drizzle extra olive oil on top with a dash of paprika and a pinch of more flakes. Serve in a dish with pita bread, or sliced veggies for an easy snack.

Hummus can be stored in a container for up to a week.