Have You Heard Of Italian Hummus?

Pssst! Want to know a secret? One that’ll wow your guests at that next party or be the star addition to your coveted recipe collection? We’ve discovered just the thing— Italian hummus! Yes, we did say ‘Italian’ hummus — a simple but refreshing take on this Middle-Eastern staple that you will want to scoop up all day, every day.

Spilling The Beans

Italian cuisine thrives on the simplicity and versatility of ingredients. This region is home to an abundance of such ingredients like lemons, chickpeas, herbs and olive oil — each one essential to making hummus. But, the Italian version takes the form of a slow-cooked sauce, made with chickpeas, olive oil and a handful of herbs. The only notable difference is the lack of tahini. And yet, it makes for a creation that’s creamy, dreamy and downright delicious.

Already toying with the idea of serving Italian hummus at that next do? Here’s something to chew on — a little Italian hummus story to share with your guests at your next Sunday brunch.

The Inspiration

Italian hummus is said to be inspired by a popular dish called Minestra di Ceci, a.k.a chickpea soup. In fact, chickpeas became an integral part of the Italian ‘cucina povera’ style of cooking — where inexpensive, everyday ingredients are used to make wholesome meals.

So, in the Marche region of Italy, chickpeas popped up in soups, the most popular of which is Minestra di Ceci alla Marchigiana. This flavour-rich soup is primarily made with chickpeas, olive oil and garlic and laid out the recipe for Italian hummus as we know it, adding another chapter to the hummus history books.

Hummus, The Italian Way

Hummus is a versatile dish, so it takes different forms across Italy. In Tuscany for instance, it’s spiced with peperoncino — hot chilli peppers. While hummus is traditionally served as a dip with crackers, you can always get creative with Sorrentina’s 3 moreish versions — each one encasing Italy’s passion for simple ingredients, with our chefs’ sound expertise.

Those who enjoy the classics will love Sorrentina’s Italian-Style Garlic Hummus. Inspired by a Tuscan recipe, this is a blend of chickpeas, garlic, Italian peperoncino and other fresh ingredients, sourced from local growers. For those who prefer some tang in their food, there’s Sorrentina’s Italian-Style Marinara Hummus — a ‘Middle-East meets Italy’ creation of fire-roasted, charred tomatoes, fresh Italian basil and a cream of fresh chickpeas. And finally, for a hit of spice, try Sorrentina’s Italian-Style Jalapeño Hummus, made using a traditional recipe from Florence.

Now that you know all there is to know about Italian hummus history, consider serving it in fun new ways. Here are some expert tips to get you started.

In Pasta

Hummus can easily be used as a pasta sauce. Simply swirl it through cooked pasta, thin it out with some water and toss in the veggies of your choice. Don’t forget to add in generous glugs of olive oil and a squeeze of lime to make the flavours pop.

In Salads

Hummus can be used as a salad dressing, too and is enough to make even the plainest of vegetables sing with flavour. Alternately, spread some Italian hummus on a plate and top it with olives, basil or a freshly tossed salad.

In Risotto

Thanks to its creamy texture, hummus makes for a great dairy substitute for vegans. So, the next time you’re planning on making risotto, consider adding Italian hummus to your cooked rice and broth. Let it sit and season with a crack of pepper. Take it from us — the addition of hummus here will give your risotto a delightfully creamy texture.

On Pizza

Hummus and bread is already a well-established combination. And there’s no better way to ‘Italianize’ hummus than to slather it onto pizza! Instead of the traditional marinara sauce, spread hummus on a pizza base and top it with the vegetables of your choice. Bake, sprinkle with herbs and enjoy!

Craving a taste? Order your tubs of our signature hummus online.

Also read - Take A Walk Down The Great Italian Pesto Trail