How Long Does Homemade Hummus Last?
Many kitchens have hummus. You can buy it or make it. Store-bought hummus has a date. Homemade does not. So, people ask: how long does homemade hummus last? This guide explains.
Does Hummus Expire?
Yes. Hummus is fresh food. It contains chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice. These ingredients spoil. Their quality changes. Bad bacteria grow if storage is poor.
Note this: hummus can spoil without clear signs. You may see no mold or smell nothing odd. But harmful bacteria could be present. Do not eat hummus past its safe time.
How Long Does Store-Bought Hummus Last?
Unopened, it lasts long. Typically, it stays good for 6 to 12 months from production. Factories add safe preservatives. This extends shelf life. Always check the package date. For best quality, use it before that date.
After opening, use it quickly. Opened hummus lasts 3 to 7 days in the refrigerator. Why? Air and germs enter. Always seal the lid tightly after use.
Factories use special hummus filling machine. These machines fill containers in a clean, closed space. This keeps the hummus sterile. It is one reason store-bought hummus lasts longer.
How Long Does Homemade Hummus Last?
Ingredient freshness is key. Fresh chickpeas and tahini help. Using old or spoiled ingredients can cause spoilage in 1 to 2 days. Always use clean bowls, spoons, and blenders. Dirty tools introduce bacteria.
A good tip: make small batches. Make only what you will eat in a few days. Before eating, look and smell. If taste is sour, texture is slimy, or you see mold, discard it.
• 2 cups cooked chickpeas (canned is fine; drain and rinse)
• 3 tablespoons tahini
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• A pinch of salt
• 2-3 tablespoons water
Tools:
• Food processor or blender
• Measuring spoons
• A clean container with a lid
Steps:
1. Prepare ingredients. Drain and rinse chickpeas.
2. Mince the garlic.
3. Put everything except water into the food processor.
4. Blend until smooth. If too thick, add one tablespoon water. Blend again. Repeat until creamy.
5. Transfer hummus to a clean container.
6. Pour a thin olive oil layer on top. This blocks air. Your hummus is ready.
How to Store It Correctly
Unopened store-bought hummus can stay in a cool pantry. After opening, refrigerate it. Never leave an opened container out for over 2 hours. Warmth speeds bacterial growth.
Can You Freeze Hummus?
Yes. Freezing extends shelf life to months. This works for both homemade and store-bought types. Freezing slows spoilage.
But freezing alters texture slightly. After thawing, it may be watery or separated. Stir it well. It remains safe to eat.
Freeze hummus in small containers. This way, you thaw only what you need. Use freezer-safe containers. Remove excess air from freezer bags.
How to Thaw Frozen Hummus?
Best method: thaw slowly in the fridge. Move the container from freezer to fridge. Let it sit 4 to 8 hours. You can take it out the night before.
Do not re-freeze thawed hummus. Re-freezing damages quality. Always check thawed hummus before eating. If it smells bad, discard it.
Easy Ways to Use Hummus
• With Vegetables: Use as a dip. Cut carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers into sticks. Arrange them around a hummus bowl. A healthy snack.
• On Toast: Toast bread. Spread a thick hummus layer. Add avocado slices or chili flakes. A quick, tasty breakfast.
• As Salad Dressing: Mix 3 tablespoons hummus with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir. Pour over salad.
Homemade hummus lasts 3 to 5 days refrigerated. Store-bought lasts longer. Always store it sealed in the fridge. Freezing can extend its life. Before eating, check for spoilage signs. These steps let you enjoy hummus safely and reduce waste.