Homemade Hummus: Portable, Filling, and Versatile

For those of you who feel you are always on the run and looking for a quick portable snack look no further. As hummus  has no eggs or dairy it is able to withstand a few hours out of the fridge with no problem and can be added to a number of other foods to add taste and satisfy your hunger. Personally I love to use  it as a spread on a sprouted grain bread (like Ezekiel bread) with fresh vegetables on top or simply as a dip for some celery or carrots. The chickpeas offer some protein and good fiber and the olive oil supplies healthy omega 3 rich fat which helps fill you up and also lowers inflammation in your body.

When I was first introduced to hummus I was taken back by the price in the stores, often spending almost $5 for a small package of hummus. Once I learned how to make it on my own my pocket book and taste buds rejoiced. Homemade hummus can be made for pennies on the dollar and has a much better consistency and taste than the store bought varieties. Also by making it on your own you can add different flavors and spices like jalapenos, extra garlic, etc. 
If you have a high powered food processor or blender you can save money by using raw sesame seeds and when those are ground in your processor you essentially have made Tahini. If you really want to go the extra mile and bring a textured nutty taste to your hummus, roast your raw sesame seeds in the an oven at 350 degrees for 10 minutes, stirring and flipping over the seeds after 5 to ensure even roasting. If your blender is more standard you may need to substitute store bought Tahini for the sesame seeds.
As you practice making this you will add more or less oil and spices until you find the combination that works for you. Don't forget this is a great addition to kids lunches and also to eat prior to workouts or in small amounts during sporting events if you have at least 45 minutes  before competing. 

If you want to see how easy this is to prepare click here: Dr. Lane's kitchen

Hummus

Ingredients
2 teaspoons garlic juice
1 1/2 tablespoon olive oil or consider flavored olive oil as well
1/3 cup lemon juice
2 cans chickpeas (1 drained) 
1/4 cup raw sesame seeds (consider roasting prior as above)
1/8 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes salt and pepper, to taste 
Consider 1/2 of a seeded jalapeno

Blend all ingredients in blender or food processor until smooth and creamy and enjoy!