Hummus is a crowd-pleaser and for good reason. In addition to being versatile and party-ready, the chickpea dip is packed with protein and nutrients, all of which means it shouldn't go to waste. Whether you make your own or have a favorite supermarket brand, the last thing you want to do is toss leftovers in the bin. Thankfully, you can freeze homemade and store-bought hummus, and the process is quick and easy. For everything you need to know, including three easy methods for thawing hummus and ideas for how to use it, read on.
How to Freeze Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Can You Freeze Homemade and Store-Bought Hummus?
Yes, all hummus can be frozen. However, as brands and recipes vary, you may find that some don't freeze as well as others. Plain hummus tends to freeze a bit better than those flavored with ingredients like garlic or roasted red peppers. You may also find that store-bought hummus keeps a bit better than homemade simply because it contains preservatives that protect it from the freezing and thawing process.
3 Ways to Freeze Hummus
There are several methods for freezing hummus, and the simplest is to just pop the original container in the freezer. This works best with small, unopened containers because smaller amounts freeze and thaw more quickly and you know that they are fully sealed. Keep in mind that hummus does expand when frozen, so the seal may break. To prevent a mess and protect your hummus from freezer odors, place the container in a freezer bag.
Another option that's great for when you've already opened a container or want to freeze smaller portions is to transfer the hummus to individual containers. Be sure to use an airtight freezer-safe container and leave about an inch of space at the top for expansion. For additional protection, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top of the hummus before freezing. The oil helps prevent moisture loss and is already an ingredient, so you can simply stir it into the hummus once thawed.
Yet another approach is to spoon small amounts of hummus onto a parchment paper–lined baking sheet, freeze until solid and then move to a freezer bag for longer-term storage. This method works particularly well if you want to freeze very small portions. For instance, if you love to spread hummus on sandwiches and only need a few tablespoons, this technique comes in handy.
How Long Can You Freeze Hummus?
No matter which method you choose, hummus should only be frozen for up to four months. It will be safe to eat after that, but the taste and texture will start to decline. To make sure you use your hummus in time—and to quickly and easily assess what's in your freezer—be sure to label and date the container before freezing.
How to Freeze Leftovers to Enjoy at a Later Date
How to Thaw Hummus
Regardless of how you freeze hummus, it should always be thawed overnight in the refrigerator. As with most foods, the larger the quantity, the longer it will take to thaw. Once thawed, hummus should be enjoyed within five days and should not be refrozen.
Hummus may separate a bit in the freezing and thawing process, so if it looks watery, oily or dry, give it a good stir before using. If you enjoy hummus warm, you can also microwave it for a few seconds (after fully thawing), which can also improve the consistency.
How to Use Thawed Hummus
Freezing and thawing can affect both the taste and texture of hummus. If your thawed hummus seems dry, gradually stir in a bit of olive oil. If you find the flavor lacking—freezing can dull the flavor of food—try adding minced garlic or onion, fresh herbs, fresh lemon juice or dried spices like za'atar, sumac or oregano. A drizzle of tahini, chili oil or a flavorful olive oil are also great ideas. You can even add some canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed) to bump up the flavor and texture.
Once thawed, hummus can be used in all the ways you would enjoy it fresh, including in sandwiches, alongside roasted vegetables, with chicken and veggies in a bowl or as part of a sweet and savory snack platter.
FAQs
Hummus freezes well for about four months. The longer you freeze hummus, the more likely it is to change flavor and texture. If you have a lot of hummus to freeze but want to thaw it out in small amounts, use several freezer bags to divide it. Place your desired amount in the bag and press out as much air as possible.
Why is hummus not suitable for freezing? ›
The freezing process may render your hummus dry or separated, or it may make the hummus taste a bit bland. Revive it by swirling in some extra olive oil and/or lemon juice and by adding some freshly minced garlic. Once it's back up to your standards, you can use the hummus just like you normally would.
What's the best way to freeze hummus? ›
Before you seal up your container and put it into the freezer, drizzle a little olive oil over the hummus. The oil will help infuse extra moisture into the dip so it won't be too dry when you thaw it out. Then, tightly close the container and place it in your freezer. Your kitchen is now your own culinary classroom.
Does freezing hummus change the texture? ›
Freezing and thawing can affect both the taste and texture of hummus. If your thawed hummus seems dry, gradually stir in a bit of olive oil.
How long does hummus last in the freezer? ›
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, since prolonged freezing can have negative effects on flavor and texture.
Can you freeze hummus in Ziploc bags? ›
Spoon the hummus into an airtight container.
Avoid using Ziploc bags or glass containers when freezing your hummus, as a bag could freeze the hummus unevenly, and the glass may crack while thawing. Leave 1 in (2.5 cm) or so of space between the lid and hummus. This will allow the hummus to expand while it freezes.
Is hummus fattening? ›
Simply put, hummus is a wise food choice, whether you're looking to eat a more nourishing diet, or lose weight. It's not fattening in the right quantities, and it's a great source of complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber that your body needs to be balanced! We're happy it's as nourishing as it is delicious.
How do you make hummus last longer in the fridge? ›
It will stay fresh and creamy for up to 1 week in the fridge (but it's best within 4 days). You can prevent it from drying out by storing it in an airtight container with a light layer of extra virgin olive oil on top. How do you serve leftover hummus? Allow it to come to room temperature, or warm it up.
Can dogs eat hummus? ›
Can Dogs Eat Hummus? Though hummus is primarily made from chickpeas, it's not safe to feed your dog. This is because hummus contains many other ingredients that are not dog-friendly, including garlic, onion, and spices.
What does adding ice to hummus do? ›
The Ice Cube Trick for Hummus
For extra light and fluffy hummus, adding an ice cube to the hummus mixture before blending helps incorporate air into the mixture. Only add an ice cube if you're using a heavy-duty blender or food processor that can handle chopping ice.
Once the dip is left open and unrefrigerated, it is exposed to various bacteria and microbes that may accelerate its spoilage, and it does go bad if left out for too long.. If you plan to store some for later, it is best to minimize the amount of time it spends unrefrigerated, and try to keep it free of contamination.
How to defrost frozen hummus? ›
To defrost hummus, transfer only what you need to an airtight container and defrost in the fridge 24 hours.
Why does my homemade hummus taste bad? ›
Another cause might be that your lemon is a bit old, causing it to taste more bitter than sour. Lastly, if you've added too much garlic or just happened to used a particularly strong clove, it'll leave the hummus with a very pungent, raw taste.
Why can't you freeze shop bought hummus? ›
You sure can! Freezing works for both homemade and store-bought hummus. The store-bought ones often freeze better because they have extra preservatives. But remember, freezing may change the hummus's taste and feel a bit.
What is the best container to freeze hummus in? ›
Freeze hummus by keeping it in an air-tight container (the one it came in from the store is fine). Make sure the lid is tightly secured to help prevent freezer burn. We recommend also placing the container in a freezer bag to help prevent odor absorption and freezer burn. It's good practice to label the hummus.
Can you eat hummus after 7 days? ›
While opened and homemade hummus can last up to seven days, it does not mean it will. You will definitely notice that the hummus is spoiled when you see mold growing on it. The less obvious may be that the hummus offers an unpleasant, off-odor and sour smell. This hummus may also taste sour if you decide to try it.
Why does hummus need to be refrigerated? ›
Humus is a perishable food item, which means it is prone to spoil more quickly if not kept refrigerated at 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Most freshly prepared vegetable-based spreads fall under this category; this is why they are kept in the refrigerated section of your supermarket.
Can you freeze chickpeas for hummus? ›
Yes, you can freeze chickpeas or garbanzo beans! Freezing them is not only a great way to preserve the shelf life of your chickpeas, but a great way to ensure you always have them on hand when you need them at a later date. I personally keep a stash of frozen, cooked chickpeas in my freezer at all times!
Can you freeze reduced fat hummus? ›
Keep refrigerated. Once opened, consume within 2 days and by 'use by' date shown. Not suitable for freezing.
