A Quick Path to Wellness: My Go-To Hummus Boost
Living with chronic conditions often means navigating fluctuating energy levels and unpredictable symptoms that can easily derail plans, including cooking. That’s precisely why I developed this quick, not-from-scratch recipe for an easy, spicy garlic turmeric hummus. While I love making hummus from scratch, sometimes time and energy simply aren’t on my side. This method is a brilliant shortcut, taking a ready-made, store-bought hummus and transforming it into an anti-inflammatory powerhouse. It’s about finding little ways to incorporate beneficial ingredients like turmeric and garlic into your daily diet, offering a small but consistent boost.
The Power of Thoughtful Ingredients
My choices for this hummus boost are intentional, built on a foundation of ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric, especially when paired with black pepper (which helps activate it), and cumin are spices often discussed in relation to POTS-friendly diets and their potential effects on the body.
When it comes to hot sauce, my one firm rule is: absolutely no vinegar. This isn’t necessarily a POTS-specific dietary restriction, but rather a crucial flavor preference for hummus. Traditionally, hummus doesn’t have a vinegary tang, and using a water-based hot sauce like El Yucateco preserves the authentic taste I love. Beyond that, the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; it’s designed to work with your favorite regular hummus base, allowing you to avoid any ingredients you might already be sensitive to.
The Art of “Sort-of Measuring”
This recipe thrives on simplicity and intuition. Instead of precise measuring spoons and cups, I opt for the “teaspoon to sort-of measure” method. This less rigid approach is perfect for days when brain fog or fatigue makes intricate tasks daunting. It’s about empowering myself to create something delicious and beneficial on the spur of the moment, without extra thought or effort. The general amounts ensure success every time, even as the exact proportions might vary slightly depending on my mood or what I have on hand. Over time, I’ve experimented with additions like sesame seeds or using fresh garlic and lemon when I have the energy, but the core method remains reliably easy.
Crafting Your Custom Hummus
Here’s how you can create your own anti-inflammatory-boosted hummus:
Prepare Your Base:
Open your preferred organic plain hummus (I love the one from Aldi). If the container is very full, remove a teaspoon or two to make room for your additions. Often, I’ll use some for a sandwich first, creating the perfect space for transformation.
Add Liquids First:
Begin with a squirt of lemon juice from a concentrate bottle, followed by a drizzle of olive oil.
Bring the Heat:
Add your hot sauce. Remember, ensure it’s a water-based variety with no vinegar for the best flavor profile.
Flavor Boosters:
Incorporate jarred minced garlic (for convenience), salt, and black pepper.
The Anti-Inflammatory Stars:
Add turmeric and then cumin. Be cautious with the cumin – it’s less forgiving than the other ingredients and can easily overpower the flavor if you add too much.
Mix Well:
Gently stir and fold all the ingredients until everything is thoroughly combined and the hummus is smooth.
That’s it! You now have a delicious, custom-enhanced hummus.
It’s a versatile dip or spread that perfectly aligns with a diet that favors anti-inflammatory ingredients, making it an excellent base for the smaller, more frequent meals often recommended for managing POTS orthostatic intolerance throughout the day. It’s a simple, effective way to nourish your body and support your well-being.
