Nutritious powerhouse
Today is International Hummus Day. Hummus is a delicious dish comes from the Levant (today’s countries of Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, Jordan, and Cyprus).
The basic ingredients are chickpeas, which we call kabuli channa or vellai kadalai, tahini which is a paste of sesame (til or ellu) seeds, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil and salt. Of course, there are some regional variations. For example, in Egypt, cumin or jeera is also added. Fairly easy to make, it is traditionally served as a side to pita bread or grilled meat dishes.
Hummus packs a load of nutritional benefits. Chickpeas offer protein, fibre and good carbs. Garlic, olive oil and sesame seeds have antioxidants that protect against inflammation, and vitamins and minerals like manganese, copper, folate, and iron. Of course, the hummus you see in shops may be high in salt and preservatives. But, don’t worry, you can whip up your own.
It is advisable to have an adult with you when you are making this dish