Hummus (or houmous, if you prefer) used to be one of my go-to dips before I went Paleo. With the main ingredient being mashed chickpeas – yep, there’s no doubting that they’re legumes* – it’s most definitely not on the Paleo menu. Which is a shame because this Middle Eastern sauce is great as an appetizer or a dip for raw veggies.
Besides, even if it were Paleo – have you checked out the ingredients recently? These are the ingredients of two of the popular brands of hummus sold in my local Coles supermarket:
Savion Dairy Hommus Dip
Ingredients: Chickpeas (47%), Sesame Seed Paste (23%), Canola Oil (Antioxidant 320), Lemon Juice (Preservative 202), Water, Salt (Anti-Caking Agent 554), Food Acid (330).
Yumi's Traditional Hommus Dip
Ingredients: Chick Peas 45%, Water, Vegetable Oil, Sesame Seed Paste, Vinegar, Salt, Garlic, Citric Acid, Preservative (202, 211), Acidity Regulator (575).
Canola oil, vegetable oil, and all of those additives and preservatives – no thanks.
So, what are the options for making a Paleo hummus? Well, I've tried with both zucchini and cauliflower – and I like the zucchini best. It’s great with kale chips.
This recipe takes out the chickpeas (no legumes here!) and uses Paleo alternatives to make this delicious hummus!
Recipe: Paleo Hummus
Equipment
- Food processor
Ingredients
- 3 Zucchini’s Small, peeled and roughly chopped
- Lemon Juice of
- 50 ml Tahini
- 30 ml Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- Paprika or cut chives to serve
Instructions
- First, put the zucchini and lemon juice in your food processor and blend until smooth.
- Next, add the tahini, olive oil, cumin, seasoning, and garlic. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Then, put the hummus in the fridge for half an hour or so before serving.
- Finally, top with paprika or chopped chives to serve.
Creating this Paleo hummus allows you to enjoy a delicious and healthy dip that aligns with your Paleo lifestyle. By using zucchini instead of chickpeas, you avoid legumes and create a dip that is both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for those looking to maintain a grain-free and legume-free diet while still enjoying delicious flavours.
Moreover, this Paleo hummus is versatile and can be enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments. Try it with kale chips, raw veggies, or as a spread on your favourite Paleo bread. It’s an excellent addition to any meal or snack time.
For more delicious Paleo recipes, don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media! Let us know how you enjoyed this Paleo hummus in the comments below. Happy cooking!
*And what’s so wrong with legumes I hear you say? Well, legumes contain phytates and lectins which are to be avoided as they inhibit nutrient absorption and cause inflammation.
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Definitely going to make this one again!