International Hummus Day, celebrated annually on the 13th of May, is a delightful global event honoring one of the most versatile, healthy, and delicious spreads originating from the Middle East. On this day, hummus lovers from all over the world come together to appreciate this ancient dish by sharing recipes, hosting hummus-themed parties, and spreading love for this nutrient-rich, savory delicacy made primary from chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic.
This day serves as a fantastic reminder of how food can bring people together, transcend cultural boundaries, and also contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
History of International Hummus Day
International Hummus Day, recognized globally every May 13th, is a celebration of the delectable and nutritious Middle Eastern dish, Hummus. This annual observance originated in 2012 when two entrepreneurs, Ben Lang and Miriam Young, decided to create a day dedicated to this culinary delight. Their idea, shared on a Facebook group, quickly gained popularity. Thus, what started as a small social media event gradually turned into an internationally celebrated one, with May 13 being the designated date.
Rather than solely celebrating Hummus, this day has broader significance. It serves as a reminder that food can transcend cultural, religious, and geographic divides, uniting people worldwide. Since Hummus is a dish much-loved across different cultures globally, the day promotes global unity. Further, as Hummus is protein-rich and considered a healthier alternative to many dips, International Hummus Day also serves to encourage healthier eating habits.
How people celebrate this day is as varied as the dish itself. Some individuals may simply enjoy a bowl of Hummus at home, while restaurants often offer special deals or promotions for the day. Food enthusiasts also embrace the day, sharing unique Hummus recipes across social platforms.
With each passing year, International Hummus Day gains increased recognition and momentum. This day presents a wonderful opportunity for people worldwide to appreciate the diverse culinary styles and enjoy this simple, flavorful dish.
International Hummus Day Timeline
Origin of Hummus
The origin of hummus dates back to 8000 BC in the Middle East. Early versions of the dish were made using the primary ingredients Chickpeas, Sesame, Lemon, and Garlic.
First Hummus Recipe
The first known hummus recipe was recorded in 13th Century cookbooks in Egypt.
Hummus in Mediterranean Cuisine
The use of chickpeas extends to all countries of the Mediterranean, and hummus becomes a common part of the regional diet.
Hummus in Middle Eastern Cuisine
Migration and trade fostered the introduction of hummus into Middle Eastern cuisine.
Worldwide Popularity
Increased globalization and the health benefits of hummus contributed to the dish becoming globally known and appreciated.
Commercialization of Hummus
Hummus becomes a popular dip and spread worldwide, with supermarket shelves filled with different brand variations and flavors.
Inception of International Hummus Day
The first International Hummus Day was celebrated on May 13th, 2012.
Ideas to Celebrate International Hummus Day
Hummus-tasting party
Invite your friends and family for a hummus-tasting party. Ask everyone to bring a unique hummus flavor and then vote on the most delicious one.
Hummus cooking class
Arrange a virtual or offline hummus cooking class for your friends or family. Experiment with different recipes and flavors of hummus to add variety.
Hummus-themed dinner
Serve a dinner with various dishes all including hummus. You can serve hummus as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a dessert with a sweet variation.
Discover restaurants
Explore and support your local Mediterranean restaurants that serve hummus. Try different types of hummus and discover your favorite.
International Hummus Day picnic
Organize a picnic including different hummus varieties and invite your friends, family, or community to join.
Healthy hummus day
Take the day to learn more about the health benefits of hummus, how it can be integrated into a balanced diet, and share this information with friends and family.
7 Interesting Facts About Hummus
Origin of Hummus
Hummus is a Middle Eastern food staple that's believed to date back to Ancient Egypt. It’s consumed extensively across various parts of the Arab world.
Look for the Best Hummus
The key for a delicious hummus is freshness. It should not be too garlicky or tangy. The perfect hummus is smooth and rich, not grainy or watery.
The Secret Ingredient
Tahini is an essential ingredient in traditional hummus. It is a paste made from ground, hulled sesame seeds and gives hummus its distinctive creamy texture and flavor.
Versatility of the Dish
Hummus isn't just served as a dip. It's also a common part of a full breakfast, a healthy snack, or as a complement to main dishes in many Middle Eastern countries.
Health Benefits
A serving of hummus is packed with plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and vitamins. It can aid digestion, reduce inflammation, and help maintain a healthy weight.
Hummus World Record
The Guinness World Record for the largest serving of hummus was set by Lebanon in 2010 with a whopping 10,452 kg (23,042 lbs) of the stuff made in one go.
Hummus Varieties
In addition to traditional chickpea hummus, there are several other types of hummus, including black bean hummus, beet hummus, and even chocolate hummus! All these variants are usually made by replacing traditional chickpea with other main ingredients.
International Hummus Day FAQs
Next International Hummus Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 13th | Saturday |
| 2024 | May 13th | Monday |
| 2025 | May 13th | Tuesday |
| 2026 | May 13th | Wednesday |
| 2027 | May 13th | Thursday |
| What is the pattern? | Every May 13th | |
International Hummus Day Word Search
- Hummus
- Chickpeas
- Tahini
- Cuisine
- MiddleEast
- Protein