Hummus is a delicious snack that tastes savory, rich and nutty. If your hummus tastes like peanut butter it could be because it shares similar ingredients such as salt and oil. The roasted chickpeas and sesame seeds can also have a nutty flavor that tastes like peanut butter.
This article will explore the top reasons why your hummus tastes like peanut butter.
1. Similar ingredients
Hummus and peanut butter share some similar ingredients, such as oil and salt which can make them taste similar. The tahini or sesame seed paste in hummus can also have a nutty flavor which can resemble peanut butter.
2. Over-roasting the chickpeas
Roasting the chickpeas for your hummus can give them a nutty flavor that is similar to peanut butter. If you roast them for too long they can have a bitter, nutty richness that can taste like burnt peanut butter.
This bitterness will linger in your hummus so it is best to start with fresh chickpeas if you burn or overcook them.
3. Using toasted sesame oil
Sesame oil is a common ingredient in hummus, and if toasted sesame oil is used, it could add a nutty, peanut butter flavor. This nutty flavor will resemble the toasted flavor of peanuts just like peanut butter.
4. Adding peanuts
Some hummus recipes call for adding peanuts to the mixture for texture and flavor, which could give it a peanut butter-like taste. Some restaurants will also sprinkle crushed peanuts over hummus for extra texture. If you are tasting peanut butter it might be actual peanuts that are making it taste like that.
5. Using nut butters
Some hummus recipes have contain nut butters such as almond or cashew butter which could give it a taste like peanut butter. These nut butters add extra flavor and protein and can give your hummus and interesting flavor.
6. Rancidity
If the tahini used in the hummus has gone rancid, it could have a nutty, peanut butter-like taste. If the oils in tahini have reacted with the oxygen and gone off then it will taste bitter, nutty and even sour.
If your hummus has a rancid or bitter flavor then avoid eating it. It could be that the tahini seeds have gone off and it is no longer good to eat.
7. Using a different type of chickpea
Different varieties of chickpeas can have slightly different flavors and textures, which could affect the taste of the hummus. Some have a richer, nuttier flavor that actually resemble peanut butter.
The growing conditions, weather and soils all affect the taste of each batch of chickpeas. They will vary over time and can go from mild to rich and nutty over the season. Sometimes it is natural variation that will give your hummus and nutty flavor.
8. Spices and seasonings
Depending on the recipe, hummus may include spices and seasonings that could affect the taste, such as cumin, paprika, or garlic. These savory flavors can make the hummus taste like nutty peanut butter.
Is tahini supposed to taste like peanut butter?
Tahini is one of the main ingredients in peanut butter. Tahini is basically ground up sesame seeds. They can be toasted or not. Tahini made with toasted sesame seeds will have a nutty flavor similar to peanut butter. While the taste is not exact, you can certainly taste a similarity.
Is hummus similar to peanut butter?
Hummus is similar to peanut butter as both can contain added salt and oil. Hummus is a made from roasted and crushed legumes and seeds while peanut butter is made from roasted nuts. Both can have a nutty, savoury flavor and both contain loads of protein and moderate amounts of natural fats.
10 Ways to add extra flavor to your hummus
If you want to add some extra flavor to your hummus check out these 10 simple options.
- Roast garlic and mix it in with the hummus to give it a rich and sweet flavor.
- Add some lemon zest to the hummus for a tangy and citrus taste.
- Top the hummus with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and some paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Add some roasted red peppers to the hummus for a sweet and slightly spicy taste.
- Toast some pine nuts and sprinkle them on top of the hummus for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Mix in some fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil to add a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
- Add some sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy taste.
- Mix in some harissa paste for a spicy kick.
- Add some roasted eggplant to the hummus for a smoky and savory flavor.
- Garnish the hummus with some chopped olives, feta cheese, and fresh parsley for a Mediterranean twist.
What happens if you put too much tahini in hummus?
If you are making hummus at home and you add extra tahini it is more likely to have a nutty flavor and taste slightly like peanut butter. Adding extra tahini will also make the hummus smoother and even runny if you add a lot. For a richer chickpea flavor, add less tahini.
Why your hummus taste like peanut butter | Summary
Hummus is delicious and can have a similar taste to peanut butter because of the roasted sesame seeds and chickpeas. If your hummus has a bitter taste, bad smell or tastes like off peanuts then throw it away. The tahini may have gone rancid and it will be no good to eat.
I am an accredited practicing dietitian, experienced gardener and a dedicated cook. I love writing and sharing my experience so you can learn from my successes and mistakes.