Can You Freeze Hummus?

Hummus is a popular dip made from garbanzo beans, known for its creamy texture and delicious flavor. Whether you have homemade hummus or an unopened container of store-bought hummus, you might wonder if you can freeze it to enjoy later. The good news is, yes, you can freeze hummus! This guide will walk you through the best way to freeze hummus, ensuring it retains its creamy texture and rich flavor.

I make hummus all the time. We rip throw it fast. So I don't offend freeze it, but sometimes we are leaving for the weekend or someone brings some to the house, and we end up with more than we can consume in a week. This is when I end up freezing hummus.

Thankful my kids really like hummus (really, I am not sure how I would have fed them if they did eat hummus and this black bean recipe), so I like to freeze them in small containers for easy school snacks.

For the best results, use fresh ingredients when making your own hummus. Adding lemon juice helps preserve the flavor, while a bit of olive oil creates a protective barrier against the dry air of the freezer. Whether you have plain hummus or variations with red pepper or fresh herbs, freezing can help you avoid food waste and enjoy this classic dish even longer.

Instructions

Prepare Your Hummus: If you have a large batch of homemade hummus, consider dividing it into smaller portions. This makes thawing easier and reduces the risk of altered consistency.
Choose the Right Container: Use an airtight, freezer-safe container or freezer bag for storing hummus. Ensure there's an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes. For individual servings, ice cube trays or souper cubes are a great option. Avoid freezing more than 12 ounces in one container for quicker and more even thawing.
Preserve Moisture: Pour a thin layer of olive oil on top of the hummus to prevent moisture loss and freezer burn. Be careful not to use too much, as you don’t want an overly oily dip when it thaws. This step helps maintain the creamy texture of your hummus.
Seal and Freeze: Seal the container tightly to avoid extra moisture and freezer burn. Label it with the date to keep track of the expiration date, which is typically 3-4 months.
Freeze Up to 4 Months: Hummus can be frozen for up to four months. However, the less time it spends in the freezer, the better, as prolonged freezing can negatively affect flavor and texture.

How to Thaw

Refrigerate: Move the frozen hummus from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
Room Temperature: If you need it sooner, let the container sit at room temperature for a few hours.
Stir Well: Once thawed, give the hummus a good stir to restore its creamy texture.
Add Fresh Ingredients: If needed, add a bit of olive oil, lemon juice, or fresh herbs to revive the flavor.

Tips, Tricks, and Alterations

Use Parchment Paper: For larger portions, place parchment paper between layers of hummus in a container.
Avoid Freezing with Extra toppings: If you like to add toppings like olive tapenade or fresh parsley, do so after thawing.
Check for Bacterial Growth: Always ensure your hummus is stored properly to avoid any risk of bacterial growth.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to freeze different types of hummus, like those with garlic and cumin, for a variety of delicious dip options.
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Freezing hummus is an easy way to save leftover hummus and avoid food waste. With proper storage, you can enjoy your favorite hummus dip anytime, even months after making or buying it. Try these simple steps and enjoy delicious hummus recipes without worrying about too much hummus going to waste.