Wild Garlic Hummus

This wild garlic hummus recipe is a delicious and nutritious twist on traditional hummus. The combination of wild garlic, chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and cumin creates a flavourful and creamy dip that is packed with protein, fibre, and healthy fats. Not only is it a great snack option, but it can also be used as a spread for sandwiches or wraps. Plus, the ingredients offer various health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties, vitamins, and minerals.

I’d SERIOUSLY urge you to get out foraging and make this wild garlic hummus! (but try and go off the beaten track a little to avoid the dog pee soaked wild garlic)

As you may probably be able to tell, I (and my entire family) LOVE hummus. It’s rare that a day goes by in which we haven’t consumed hummus in some form. And that’s the beauty of it. You can mix things up so much! Throw in some random ingredients and boom, suddenly you have a Pineapple and Marmite Hummus (only kidding). But it is a seriously versatile dish that you can play with. Today I went foraging in my local woods for some wild garlic, and so made some wild garlic hummus.

I promise you, it’s worth the forage! So without further ado, my vegan wild garlic hummus…

Introducing Wild Garlic…

Wild garlic has a flavour that is often described as being similar to garlic, but with a few key differences. While it does have a pungent and aromatic quality like regular garlic, it has a slightly milder and sweeter taste. At the same time, wild garlic also has a more complex flavour profile, with a distinctively green and earthy taste that comes from its natural growing environment.

One of the reasons that wild garlic is such a popular ingredient in many dishes is because of its unique flavour. Its complex taste can add depth and dimension to many different types of dishes, ranging from simple salads and soups to more complex sauces and marinades. Its green and earthy flavour also pairs well with a wide range of other ingredients.

Here are some of the great things about wild garlic (and this Wild Garlic Hummus):

Flavour: Wild garlic has a unique and pungent flavour that is similar to garlic but milder and more delicate. Its flavour makes it a popular ingredient in many culinary dishes, particularly in the spring when it’s in season.

Nutritional value: Wild garlic is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and magnesium. It also contains sulfur compounds that have antioxidant properties and may provide health benefits.

Sustainable foraging: Wild garlic is a foraged food that grows in the wild and can be sustainably harvested. This makes it a popular ingredient among chefs and home cooks who are interested in using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients.

Ecological importance: Wild garlic is an important plant for many animal species, including bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. It also plays a vital role in the ecosystem by enriching the soil and providing habitat for other plants and animals.

What Does Wild Garlic look Like?

You’re ready to go foraging aren’t you? I can tell! Wild garlic has a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other types of garlic and onions. The plant typically grows in early spring, usually in damp, shaded areas such as forests, fields, and along riverbanks (that’s where I usually get mine!).

The appearance of wild garlic makes it easy to identify in the wild, and its distinctive leaves and bulbs make it a popular target for foragers. However, it’s important to be careful when foraging for wild garlic, as it can be easily confused with other plants, such as lily of the valley, which is poisonous. It’s always best to consult an expert or a reliable guidebook before attempting to forage for wild garlic on your own.

Where Can I Get Wild Garlic?

Wild garlic is a plant that is native to Europe, where it has been enjoyed as a culinary ingredient for centuries. However, it has also been introduced to other parts of the world and is now commonly found in regions such as Asia and North America. In these regions, wild garlic is often considered an invasive species, but it is still valued for its unique flavour and culinary versatility.

If you’re interested in foraging for wild garlic, you can typically find it growing in damp, shady areas such as forests, fields, and along riverbanks. It usually starts to appear in early spring and can be harvested until late May or early June, depending on the climate and location. When foraging for wild garlic, it’s important to be careful and only harvest from areas that are known to be safe and free from pollution or contaminants.

Alternatively, wild garlic can also be purchased at specialty markets or online stores, where it is often sold fresh or preserved in jars. Many chefs and home cooks prize wild garlic for its unique flavour and versatility, using it in a wide range of dishes such as soups, stews, sauces, and marinades. It’s also commonly used as a garnish or finishing touch to add a fresh, garlicky flavour to salads and other dishes.

The Ingredients

I’m a big believer in understanding your food. That’s why I like to think about each ingredient specifically and what it adds to the overall dish (in terms of taste, texture, aesthetics and nutrition).

My wild garlic hummus is made up of some amazing stuff that make it taste great, look amazing, and provide lots of useful nutrients. Here it is…

Wild Garlic: Wild garlic is the star of your recipe (you can’t really make wild garlic hummus without it…), and it provides a unique, pungent flavour to your hummus. It is also known for its nutritional value, as it contains vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as calcium, potassium, and iron.

Chickpeas: Chickpeas are a great source of protein and fibre, and they add a creamy texture to your hummus. They also have a mild flavour that complements the wild garlic well.

Garlic: Garlic provides a strong, pungent flavour that pairs well with the wild garlic. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to overall health.

Tahini: Tahini is made from sesame seeds and adds a nutty, creamy flavour to your hummus. It is also a great source of healthy fats and protein.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness to your hummus and is also a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve heart health.

Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavour to your hummus and also helps to balance the flavours of the other ingredients. It is also a great source of vitamin C.

Cumin: Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavour to your hummus and complements the other flavours well. It is also a good source of antioxidants and may help with digestion.

Salt: Salt enhances the overall flavour of the hummus by balancing out the bitterness of the garlic and wild garlic with a touch of savoury flavour. It also helps to bring out the natural flavours of the other ingredients.

Wild garlic hummus is a nutritious and flavourful snack that is packed with protein, fibre, and healthy fats. It can be enjoyed as a dip for vegetables or pita chips or used as a spread for sandwiches or wraps.

Nutritional Benefits of Wild Garlic

Wild garlic is not only prized for its unique flavour and culinary versatility (who would have thought you could go out and forage for your own wild garlic hummus!), but it also, as noted above, offers a variety of health benefits. This plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries and is known for its nutritional properties, including its high vitamin and mineral content.

One of the most notable health benefits of wild garlic is its high concentration of vitamins A and C. These vitamins are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting overall health and well-being. Additionally, wild garlic is a good source of minerals such as calcium, potassium, and iron, which are important for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and blood.

Wild garlic also contains compounds with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and fight off infections. These properties have been studied for their potential to lower the risk of certain chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Another potential benefit of wild garlic is its ability to help lower cholesterol levels. Some studies have suggested that consuming wild garlic may help to reduce levels of LDL cholesterol, which is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol. This could potentially lower the risk of heart disease and other related conditions.

Finally, wild garlic may also help to improve digestion, thanks to its high fibre content. Fibre is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system and can help to prevent constipation and other digestive issues.

So what are you waiting for? This wild garlic hummus wont make itself!

Other Culinary Uses for Wild Garlic

One popular use of wild garlic is in hummus, where it can add a pungent and complex flavour to the classic dip. Wild garlic can also be used to make a variety of other dishes, including wild garlic butter, which is perfect for spreading on bread.

Another popular use for wild garlic is in pesto, where it can be blended with other herbs such as basil and parsley for a unique and flavourful twist on the classic sauce. Wild garlic pesto can be used to dress pasta or as a dip for vegetables or crackers.

Wild garlic can also be used to make a delicious and comforting soup. The leaves and bulbs can be sautéed with onions and other aromatics before being simmered with broth and vegan cream for a rich and flavourful soup.

What Can I Use Instead of Tahini For Hummus?

Tahini is a staple and should be in your cupboards! But if you’ve happened across some wild garlic and decided you want to make hummus, but don’t have any tahini, don’t worry, there are alternatives you can use!

Tahini is an important ingredient in hummus, as it provides a nutty rich flavour and a creamy texture. However, if you don’t have tahini on hand or if you’re allergic to sesame, there are several substitutes you can use to make hummus:

Almond butter: Almond butter can also be used as a substitute for tahini. It has a slightly sweeter and less bitter taste than tahini and can give hummus a slightly different flavour.

Vegan Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used to add creaminess and tang to hummus. It is a healthier option than some of the nut butters and can be used in equal amounts to tahini.

Sour cream: Vegan sour cream can also be used as a substitute for tahini. It will add a tangy flavour to hummus and can be used in equal amounts to tahini.

Keep in mind though that the flavour and texture of your hummus may be slightly different depending on which substitute you choose to use. It may take some experimenting to find the best substitute for your taste preferences.

Love This Wild Garlic Hummus and Want to Try More Hummus Recipes?

If you love this wild garlic hummus and want to try another of my hummus recipes, why not give my smoked hummus with caramelised onions a go?

What Are The Side Effects of Wild Garlic?

Wild garlic, also known as ‘ramps’, is generally safe to consume for most people. However, like many foods, some people may experience side effects after consuming wild garlic. Here are some possible side effects:

Digestive issues: Some people may experience stomach discomfort, bloating, gas, or diarrhoea after consuming wild garlic. This may be due to its high content of fructans, which can be difficult to digest for some people.

Allergic reactions: Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to wild garlic. Symptoms may include itching, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing.

Blood-thinning: Wild garlic has blood-thinning properties due to the presence of allicin, a compound that can prevent blood clotting. While this can be beneficial for people with cardiovascular conditions, it can also increase the risk of bleeding for those taking blood-thinning medications.

Interference with medication: Wild garlic may interact with certain medications, including those for blood pressure, diabetes, and blood thinners. It is important to speak with your healthcare provider before consuming wild garlic if you are taking any medications.

Odour: Wild garlic has a strong odour that can persist on the breath and skin after consumption. This may be unpleasant for some people.

It is important to note that these side effects are not common and that wild garlic is generally safe for most people to consume. As with any food or supplement, it is recommended to consume it in moderation and speak with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or underlying health conditions.

Is Wild Garlic Actually Garlic?

Wild garlic is a distinct species and is not the same as the garlic that you probably commonly use in your own cooking.

Wild garlic has long, broad, green leaves with a pointed tip, and it grows in clusters from a bulb-like structure. The leaves, bulb, and flowers of wild garlic are all edible and have a pungent, garlicky flavour.

The main difference between wild garlic and garlic is the intensity of their flavour. Wild garlic has a milder and sweeter flavour compared to garlic, which is why it is often used as a substitute for garlic in recipes that require a more delicate flavour.

Overall, while wild garlic is not exactly the same as garlic, it is a flavourful and nutritious herb that is enjoyed by many people and can be used in a variety of dishes.

How Long Does Hummus Keep?

Typically, you can expect your wild garlic hummus to last approximately 1 week if stored correctly. Check out this article for more information on how long hummus lasts!