Introduction
Hummus is a creamy dip or spread made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and other ingredients. It is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, but it has become increasingly popular around the world in recent years. But when was hummus invented?
Exploring the history of hummus can help us gain a greater understanding of how this popular dish was created and evolved over time. In this article, we will take a look at the historical timeline of hummus, as well as the culinary and cultural influences that have shaped this beloved Middle Eastern dip.
Historical Timeline of Hummus
The exact origin of hummus is unknown, but there is evidence that it has been enjoyed for centuries. Let’s take a look at the key points in the historical timeline of hummus.
Ancient Origins
The earliest known mention of hummus dates back to 13th century Egypt. According to a study published in the International Journal of Gastronomy and Food Science, “The oldest written recipes for hummus bi tahini (hummus with tahini) were recorded in cookbooks from the thirteenth century in Cairo.”
Hummus also appears in an Ottoman recipe book from the 16th century. This suggests that hummus was already popular by this time, and had likely been enjoyed for centuries before that.
Middle Eastern Influences
By the 19th century, hummus had become a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. It was served as a side dish or snack, typically with flatbreads such as pita or lavash. The widespread availability of chickpeas, which are the main ingredient in hummus, made it an inexpensive and accessible food.
In the 20th century, hummus began to spread beyond the Middle East. It became especially popular in Israel, where it is now considered a national dish. According to the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “Hummus is a symbol of coexistence between Jews and Arabs in Israel.”
Spread of Hummus Across the Globe
In recent years, hummus has become increasingly popular outside the Middle East. It has become a staple in grocery stores and restaurants around the world, and is even served in some fast-food chains. According to a report by the market research firm Mintel, “Global sales of hummus rose by 30% between 2013 and 2018, with sales in the US alone reaching $1 billion.”
Exploring the Culinary and Cultural Influences
To understand the popularity of hummus today, it is important to explore the culinary and cultural influences that have shaped this beloved dish.
Traditional Recipes and Ingredients
Hummus is traditionally made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. These ingredients are blended together to create a creamy and flavorful dip. Some recipes also include additional ingredients such as cumin, paprika, parsley, or pine nuts.
The traditional recipe for hummus has been passed down through generations, and each region has its own unique variation. For example, in the Middle East, hummus is often served with a topping of ground beef, while in North Africa it is usually served with a topping of cooked fava beans.
Regional Varieties of Hummus
Due to its popularity, there are now many regional varieties of hummus. In the Middle East, for example, there is the classic hummus bi tahini, as well as variations such as hummus ful (which includes fava beans), hummus kawarma (which includes lamb), and hummus masabacha (which includes whole chickpeas).
In recent years, there have also been new innovations in hummus, such as flavored varieties, as well as vegan and gluten-free options. These new varieties have helped make hummus more accessible to people with dietary restrictions.
Modern Commercialization of Hummus
The rise of commercial hummus has also played a role in its increasing popularity. Companies such as Sabra, Tribe, and Cedar’s have become household names in the US, offering pre-made hummus in grocery stores and supermarkets. These companies have made hummus more convenient and accessible than ever before.
Conclusion
In conclusion, hummus has been enjoyed for centuries, and its popularity continues to grow. By exploring its historical timeline, we can gain a greater understanding of the culinary and cultural influences that have shaped this beloved Middle Eastern dip.
We have seen that hummus is traditionally made with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. There are also regional varieties of hummus, as well as modern innovations such as flavored varieties and vegan and gluten-free options. Finally, the rise of commercial hummus has made it more convenient and accessible than ever before.
At its core, hummus is a dish that has been shaped by its history and culture. It has become a beloved staple in kitchens around the world, and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down.
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