Taste Test: The best hummus spreads (plus easy recipe ideas)
We taste-tested dozens of hummus chickpea spreads from the grocery store and online to find our favorites.
BEST OVERALL: Trader Joe's Original Hummus Dip
Judges found this "creamy and thick" spread infused with the "perfect blend of lemon and garlic." It doesn't contain tahini (sesame paste), lending it a "lighter" texture. (at most Trader Joe's stores) Read full review »
Try it in:
Hummus Sesame Noodles »
BEST GARLIC: Tribe All Natural Roasted Garlic Hummus
While other garlic varieties left our picky panel hankering for a fistful of mints, this version-one of Tribe's bestsellers-had a "sweet garlic flavor" with a hint of lemon for balance. (at most grocery stores) Read full review »
Try it in:
Hummus Shiitake Mashed Potatoes »
BEST ODDBALL: Sabra Sun Dried Tomatoes Hummus
A "supersmooth" chickpea base surrounds "chewy, bright bits" of sun-dried tomato. Don't let the crudités have all the fun: This "full-bodied and intense" hummus would add zest to a turkey sandwich or burger. (at most grocery stores) Read full review »
Try it in:
Middle Eastern Sliders »
BEST SPICY: Holy Land Jalapeño Hummus
This "fresh and tangy" winner gave tasters the heat they craved without setting off a four-alarm blaze. Judges also gave the it props for authenticity: It uses extra-creamy Israeli tahini. (at Whole Foods Markets; or holylandbrand.com) Read full review »
Try it in:
Steak Stir-Fry with Tomato Hummus Sauce »
BEST RED PEPPER: Abraham's All Natural Hummus with Roasted Red Peppers
The beautiful "charred bits" of "smoky sweet" roasted red peppers went over big with judges. (Plenty of competitors used roasted pepper flavoring. Read the ingredients!) (abrahamsnatural.com) Read full review »
Try it in:
Hummus-Stuffed Chicken Breasts »
Picking up one of the winners? Here are five bonus hummus recipe ideas to instantly spread the love.
Hummus Scrambled Eggs
Cook beaten eggs in butter until they begin to set; whisk in hummus.
Fish Fillets with Hummus
Brush fillets with hummus, pat with seasoned bread crumbs and bake.
Southeast Asian Hummus Soup
Heat chicken broth and coconut milk; whisk in hummus; add rotisserie chicken and cilantro.
Hummus-Topped Mushrooms
Sear portobello mushroom caps in olive oil, brush with hummus and broil.
Hummus Egg Salad
Combine chopped hardboiled egg, celery and hummus. Season with salt and pepper.
By David McCann | Main photography by Kate Sears
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