Humus vs. Hummus — What's the Difference?

A dark, organic material in soils, essential for the retention of moisture and nutrients.

A thick paste or spread made from ground chickpeas and sesame seeds, olive oil, lemon, and garlic, originating in the Middle East.

A component of soil that helps prevent nutrient leaching.

A source of vegan protein and dietary fiber.

The organic component of soil, formed by the decomposition of leaves and other plant material by soil microorganisms.

Often used as a healthier alternative to cream-based dips.

Soil matter that improves water infiltration and retention.

A versatile dish that can be customized with various additions like pine nuts or roasted red peppers.

Rich, finely divided organic matter in soil, crucial for maintaining soil structure.

A creamy, savory dip popular in various cuisines, adaptable to many flavors.

In soil science, humus (derived in 1790–1800 from the Latin humus for 'earth, ground') denominates the fraction of soil organic matter that is amorphous and without the "cellular cake structure characteristic of plants, micro-organisms or animals". Humus significantly affects the bulk density of soil and contributes to its retention of moisture and nutrients.

Hummus (, ; Arabic: حُمُّص‎, 'chickpeas'; full Arabic name: ḥummuṣ bi-ṭ-ṭaḥīna Arabic: حمص بالطحينة‎, 'chickpeas with tahini') is a Middle Eastern dip, spread, or savory dish made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. The standard garnish in the Middle East includes olive oil, a few whole chickpeas, parsley, and paprika.In Middle Eastern cuisine, it is usually eaten as a dip, with pita bread.

A brown or black organic substance consisting of partially or wholly decayed vegetable or animal matter that provides nutrients for plants and increases the ability of soil to retain water.

A smooth thick mixture of mashed chickpeas, tahini, oil, lemon juice, and garlic, used especially as a dip for pita.

Variant of hummus.

A Levantine Arab dip made of chickpea paste with various additions, such as olive oil, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and tahini, often eaten with pitta bread, or as a meze.

A smooth thick mixture of mashed chickpeas, tahini, oil, lemon juice, and garlic, used especially as a dip for pita.

A thick spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and garlic; used especially as a dip for pita; originated in the Middle East

A large group of natural organic compounds, found in the soil, formed from the chemical and biological decomposition of plant and animal residues and from the synthetic activity of microorganisms.

Alternative spelling of hummus

That portion of the soil formed by the decomposition of animal or vegetable matter. It is a valuable constituent of soils.

Partially decomposed organic matter; the organic component of soil

A thick spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and garlic; used especially as a dip for pita; originated in the Middle East

Humus is used to improve soil health, structure, and fertility, essential for optimal plant growth.

Humus provides essential nutrients and improves soil moisture retention, both critical for healthy plant growth.

Humus increases soil fertility, enhances moisture retention, and improves the overall soil structure.

Yes, hummus is healthy, providing a good source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.

Hummus is made by blending cooked chickpeas with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.

Popular variations include garlic hummus, red pepper hummus, and avocado hummus.

Hummus can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, and it can also be frozen for longer storage.

Yes, adding humus can improve the water and nutrient retention capabilities of sandy soils.

Higher temperatures and humidity can accelerate the decomposition process, enhancing humus formation.

Humus typically feels soft and spongy due to its high organic matter content.

Humus supports biodiversity in the soil ecosystem by providing nutrients and a habitat for many microorganisms.

Hummus is not a complete protein on its own but can be part of a diet that provides all essential amino acids.

The creamy texture of hummus makes it an ideal spread or dip for a variety of dishes.

Humus helps sequester carbon in the soil, mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to climate regulation.

While hummus is healthy, it is relatively high in calories and fat, so portion control is advised.