Wondering how long hummus can sit out? Here is the best tips guide for storing and serving hummus.
How long until hummus goes bad sitting out?
Hummus can safely last several hours setting out. According to the FDA standard, you should not leave hummus out any longer than 4 hours at room temperature. Once the dip is left open and unrefrigerated, it's exposed to various bacteria and microbes that may accelerate bacterial growth and give you a chance for food poisoning.
FAQ
If you open your hummus and there is a sour smell this is a sure sign you have bad hummus. If it smells sour don't taste it, just be cautious and toss it out. If you see any presence of mold then don't scrape off the mold. Just throw it out.
If you need to have hummus sit out several hours when serving, for best results place your hummus in a food-safe bowl on ice. This will keep it slightly chilled and safer for an extended period of time.
It is best to place a serving spoon in the hummus bowl instead of having guests dip right into the bowl. This will cut down on cross-contamination. In other words, no double-dipping is allowed!
There are so many great hummus options in your grocer's refrigerated section. However, most store-bought containers of hummus last a long time thanks to added preservatives. If preservatives are a concern to you, then learn how to make your own hummus. The flavor possibilities are endless with homemade hummus.
For the best quality, store-bought hummus first check the expiry date. The shelf life of your hummus depends on when it was made at the factory. You will need to check all the containers because the hummus shelf life might fluctuate. You will want to pick a container that has a long shelf life. The expiration time could be in a few days to a few weeks, so be sure and look for the longest expiration date.
Look your container over to be sure the package is sealed well. Check that it has a normal consistency for hummus, this is a good indication that it is fresh.
Some hummus packages have chopped veggies or seeds on top of the hummus or a little olive oil drizzled so don't be alarmed. It's best to give hummus with toppings a good stir before serving.
Do all types of hummus need refrigeration?
You do not need to refrigerate some types of hummus containers. You can purchase hummus from companies that seal their hummus in cans or jars. They will not need to be refrigerated until after you open them. Here are a few varieties that you can easily keep on hand in your pantry for snacks or an impromptu party.
What is the shelf life of hummus in a can?
A can of hummus will have the best use by date on it, which could be up to a year from the time purchased. However, after a can of hummus is opened you’ll need to put the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It can safely be kept in the fridge generally for up to seven days.
Best way to store hummus
After opening hummus it is best to place it in an airtight container or the original refrigerated packaging. If you make homemade hummus in small batches then place any leftover hummus in a clean container with a tight-fitting lid for up to 4 days.
Can you freeze hummus?
Next time you make your own homemade hummus make a lot of hummus. You can easily freeze hummus in an ice cube tray. This will make easy snack size single servings. Spoon hummus into the tray and freeze overnight. Pop the hummus cubs out the next day and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to a month.
Favorite hummus recipes
If you are a big-time hummus fan then you definitely need to learn how to make your own hummus. With a few basic ingredients such as chickpeas, olive oil, lemon juice, and tahini you can create a great hummus recipe. Then you can add unique ingredients such as garlic, olives, sesame seeds, or roasted peppers to create all kinds of flavor profiles.
This BEST HUMMUS RECIPE is an easy homemade recipe that is delicious and the greatest part is, hummus is good for you, so indulge without guilt.
Unusual types of hummus
It might surprise you that you do not have to use chickpeas as your main ingredient in hummus.
BLACK EYED PEA HUMMUS RECIPE is where the south meets traditional hummus with a twist in this delicious, slightly nutty flavored dip.
CAULIFLOWER HUMMUS has a creamy nutty flavor, with hints of roasted garlic, cumin, and sesame. It is a nutritious snack that is paleo, keto, and vegan.
LIMA BEAN HUMMUS is a smooth buttery dip that is perfect with crackers, bread, and vegetables or as a condiment on sandwiches.
Y’all are going to love this BOILED PEANUT HUMMUS! A smooth, nutty flavor with a punch of lemon and garlic makes this a southern hummus boiled peanut recipe you will make again and again.
Try some of these 50 delicious and UNIQUE HUMMUS RECIPES—fun ingredients such as beetroot, carrot, avocado, and various veggies, beans, and spices.
How to can chickpeas for hummus
CANNING CHICKPEAS is a great way to save money and the flavor is better than store-bought cans. Keeping your pantry stocked with canned chickpeas is the healthy basis for quick and easy meals or snacks.
Jocelyn
I love chickpeas, and I love hummus! Never thought about making my own! Thanks for the inspiration. I'm going to give that Garlic Hummus recipe a try!
Gina
It's a base recipe, get creative and add goodies. Pesto, olives, pinenuts, chopped herbs, and so forth. Also, did you see my post 50 Unique Hummus Recipes