Sicilian Style Hummus

The Taste of the Mediterranean: Sicilian-Style Hummus

When thinking of hummus, one might immediately conjure up images of creamy chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon. While traditional hummus from the Middle East is, of course, a timeless classic, there is a lesser-known yet equally scrumptious variation from Italy’s beautiful island of Sicily. Welcome to the world of Sicilian-Style Hummus!

Similar to its Middle Eastern cousin, Sicilian-style hummus is made from pureed chickpeas. However, it diverges from the norm with a few key twists that evoke the rich flavors of Italy’s Mediterranean region. Three main components set this Sicilian-style hummus apart from its traditional counterpart:

1. Eggplant, the Unlikely Star
In Sicily, where eggplant is a staple vegetable in many dishes, this silky, purple delight becomes a crucial element in hummus. Roasted eggplant is blended with chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon to create a rich, buttery flavor profile that transcends the ordinary.

2. Spicy, Smoky Heat
Like many Italian dishes, Sicilian-style hummus includes a dash of red pepper flakes, adding a snappy, spicy kick reminiscent of the region’s prized chili peppers. These warm, smoky undertones complement the eggplant perfectly, balancing out the tartness of the lemon juice.

3. Citrus and Olive Oyl
To maintain its quintessential Mediterranean flavor profile, Sicilian-style hummus incorporates a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) for added depth and freshness. A squeeze of Sicily’s famous blood orange (or regular orange, should blood oranges not be readily available) contributes its velvety sweetness and slight bitterness, tying everything together.

Tasting Sicilian-Style Hummus

The moment you scoop up a dollop of Sicilian-style hummus on a crudité, the aromatic essence of Mediterranean cuisine envelops your taste buds. The velvety texture of roasted eggplant mingles with the creamy chickpeas and tahini, creating an irresistible combination that teeters between sweet and savory.

As you bite down on a crunchy carrot or cherry tomato, the smokiness of the red pepper flakes tickles the senses, while the subtle nuttiness of EVOO and the zip of citrus juice keep everything refined and balanced.

Traditional Pairings and Tips for Enjoyment

As the perfect accompaniment for Sicilian-style hummus, try pairing it with:

• Fresh, local vegetables, such as sweet bell peppers, cucumber slices, or crispy flatbreads
• Thin, crispy crackers or grissini for a satisfying snacking experience
• Pasta, such as rigatoni or linguine, for a flavorful pasta primavera

Some recommended tips for optimal enjoyment of Sicilian-style hummus:

• Store your leftover hummus in the fridge for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld together further.
• Experiment with different citrus varieties for unique flavor profiles. Fresh lemons, Meyer lemons, or grapefruit can all yield remarkable results.
• Add some salty, crumbly Greek feta cheese to introduce a tangy contrast. A sprinkle of sumac or chopped fresh parsley further enhances the dish.

For those seeking a delicious new twist on the traditional Middle Eastern hummus, explore the sun-kissed flavors of Sicilian-Style Hummus. Discover the rich, warm tapestry of Italy’s southernmost region and relish the delightful synergy between East and West in every succulent bite.

Sicilian Style Hummus