Because it's just too damn easy and cheap to make. I've been a hummus making fiend over the last few months, and I've realized that hummus is definitely one of those "make it, don't buy it" foods.
Exhibit A: It's cheap. All you need for a good hummus is chickpeas (cheap), garlic (cheap), olive oil (fairly cheap), lemon juice (cheap) and tahini (this brand, Joyva, that I use is $4.89 and has lasted me through every batch of hummus I've made since buying it in the spring). Hummus at the store is anywhere from $2-$6...much more than you'd pay for what it actually costs to make it.
Exhibit B: It's easy. It takes literally five seconds to make hummus in a food processor. Add your ingredients in, whirl them around, taste and try again. That's it!
Exhibit C: At home, it's much easier to customize. Sure, the roasted red pepper hummus at the grocery store is good, but you could easily get some red peppers and roast them yourself. I like making hummus because it's easy to change the flavor with just one or two additional ingredients, like green chile, spinach, pesto, cilantro or avocado. Black bean hummus (which I've blogged about before) is one of my faves.
I do admit that I HATE cleaning my food processor, but having fresh hummus on hand all the time makes it worth it. It's so convenient to just make some hummus on Sunday or Monday and then have it in the fridge all week for when we need a quick snack.
What are your favorite hummus variations? Do you make it or buy it? I'm interested to know.
I'm Carrie. I make quick, easy, healthy food. I don't have any culinary training; I'm just a regular person who wants to eat well. You'll like this blog if you're a busy person who wants to eat flavorful, healthy food without going broke or spending hours in the kitchen.
