Is a Hummus Still a Hummus Without a Chickpea?

I’m pretty much a sucker for anything hummus. It’s one of those generalized terms, kind of like “beer,” that means different things to different people. For some, the creation of hummus is a two day process, soaking dried beans overnight, boiling for hours, and blending with just the right amount of lemon, olive oil, and spices. Some take the short cut and start with canned chickpeas (which, to the texture snobs of the hummus world is far inferior to the overnight soak). Some add tahini, and many of us just buy it off the grocery store shelf. It’s becoming the ice cream of the refrigerated section of the grocery store… from the classic variety to roasted red pepper, sun-dried tomato, pesto, olive, pine nut, artichoke, or extra spicy… to name just a few.

And while I love hummus, there are only so many flavors I can try before I find myself reverting back to the classic. Regardless of brand, recipe, or flavor, they all have one thing in common: chickpeas. Hummus, by definition, is the Arabic word for chickpea. So if you start with a “non chickpea” is it still considered a hummus?

Either way, misnomer or not, Eat Well Enjoy Life has an entire line of “unique non chick pea hummus products” that are healthy, innovative, and tasty. Aside from the traditional chickpea, this company is introducing the hummus concept to a whole new line of legumes, including yellow lentils, black beans, edamame, white beans and red lentils.

Hummus has always carried that hippie-health-food association, but for good reason. Legumes are a natural source of protein, fiber, and heart healthy fats. And the Eat Well Enjoy Life varieties are no exception. All fall below 100 calories per 2 tablespoon serving, and range from 85 – 125 mg of sodium.  The flavor profiles are quite creative, from Tuscan White Bean with Roasted Garlic to Edamame with Roasted Red Pepper and Toasted Sesame.

We especially loved the light and refreshing Original Plain Edamame, the Sweet and Spicy Black Bean Hummus with Spicy Roasted Corn Relish with a complex, yet delightful contrasting flavor profile, and the Spicy Red Lentil Chipotle Hummus with Poblano Pepper and Corn…. with just the right amount of kick.

Check out their website at http://eatwell-enjoylife.com/. You can find them on grocer’s shelves from coast to coast. 

The question now? What best non-traditional dipper suits each non-traditional hummus? The possibilities are endless…

See more: Healthy Hummus Recipes