Hey there, food lovers! Hummus is one of those universally adored dips that makes everything taste better, from pita chips to veggies.
If you’re anything like me, you probably find yourself whipping up a big batch, only to realize you’ve made enough to feed an army. That’s when the question arises: “Can you freeze hummus?”
Today, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of freezing this delectable chickpea delight. We’ll cover the ins and outs, from the basics to the pro-tips that’ll keep your hummus as fresh as the day you made it. So, let’s dig in!
Can You Freeze Hummus?
The short answer? Absolutely, yes! Freezing hummus is a fantastic way to extend its shelf life and enjoy it at your leisure.
But, as with anything in life, there are some do’s and don’ts you should know to keep your hummus at its peak quality.
How To Freeze Hummus?
Step 1: Choose the Right Container
First things first, you’ll need an airtight container to keep freezer burn at bay. You can use a plastic Tupperware, but glass containers with airtight lids are your best bet for keeping flavors intact.
Step 2: Leave Some Space
Don’t fill your container to the brim. Hummus tends to expand when frozen, so leave about an inch of space at the top to prevent any messy overflows.
Step 3: Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil
Here’s a chef’s tip for you: adding a thin layer of olive oil on top of the hummus can act as an extra barrier against freezer burn. Plus, it keeps the texture nice and creamy when you thaw it.
Step 4: Label and Date
Always, always label your containers with the date you’re freezing them. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re digging through the icy depths of your freezer.
Step 5: Freeze!
Pop the container into the freezer. If you plan to enjoy your hummus within a month or so, the main compartment of your freezer is fine. For longer storage, aim for the deepest part of the freezer where the temperature is most stable.
How Long Can You Freeze Hummus?
You can generally freeze hummus for up to 4 months without sacrificing too much in terms of taste and texture. Beyond that, you’ll start to notice a decline in quality, but it’s still safe to eat.
How To Defrost Hummus?
Ah, the moment of truth—defrosting. This process can make or break the quality of your previously frozen hummus. So let’s get it right, shall we?
Step 1: Thaw in the Fridge
Take your container of frozen hummus and move it to the refrigerator. It’s best to let it thaw overnight for optimal texture and flavor. Avoid thawing it at room temperature, as this can make it spoil faster.
Step 2: Give It a Good Stir
After it’s thawed, you’ll likely notice some separation. That’s totally normal! Just give it a good, hearty stir to blend everything back together.
Step 3: Assess and Taste
Take a small taste to make sure it’s still got its mojo. If it tastes a bit bland, consider adding a small dash of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up.
Step 4: Drizzle and Serve
Don’t forget that final drizzle of olive oil to bring it all together before serving.
Do Hummus Freeze Well?
In a nutshell, yes, hummus freezes quite well! The primary components of hummus—chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic—are all freezer-friendly. However, you might notice a slight change in texture.
It could be a bit more grainy or separated, but a good stir and perhaps a dash of extra olive oil can often bring it back to its original glory.
Can You Refreeze Hummus?
Technically, yes, you can refreeze hummus. However, each time you freeze and thaw, you’re compromising the texture and flavor a bit more.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to refreeze, try to only thaw the amount you’ll use to minimize the need for multiple freeze-thaw cycles.
Creative Ways to Use Hummus
Now that you’ve got all this hummus on your hands, let’s get creative!
1. Hummus-Stuffed Veggies
Core some bell peppers or tomatoes and fill them with hummus before roasting. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top and you’ve got yourself a healthy and delicious treat!
2. Hummus Salad Dressing
Thin out some hummus with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice, and you’ve got a creamy, tangy salad dressing.
3. Hummus Crusted Chicken
Smear some hummus on chicken breasts before baking. It creates a delicious crust that’s full of flavor.
Conclusion
Freezing hummus is not only possible, it’s a smart move for those who love this creamy, garlicky delight but can’t always finish it in one go. With the right steps, you can enjoy tasty hummus for months to come. So go ahead and make that big batch; you now know what to do with the leftovers!
FAQ
Can I freeze store-bought hummus?
Yes, store-bought hummus can be frozen in its original container, though transferring it to an airtight glass container is even better for preserving quality.
How do I prevent ice crystals from forming on top?
Adding a layer of olive oil before freezing will act as a protective layer against ice crystals.
Does freezing affect the nutritional value?
Freezing may slightly diminish the nutritional value, but the change is generally negligible.
What other foods pair well with frozen-then-thawed hummus?
Frozen-then-thawed hummus pairs well with the same foods as fresh hummus—think pita chips, fresh veggies, or as a spread in wraps.
Can I freeze flavored hummus?
Yes, you can! However, some ingredients like roasted red peppers may change in texture after freezing.
Is it safe to freeze hummus in a metal container?
While it’s safe, metal containers are not recommended for freezing hummus as they can impart a metallic taste to the food.
