12/09/2025
Hummus
Did you know one of the oldest recorded hummus recipes dates back to the 14th century?
This isn’t the smooth, creamy dip we know today, but a rustic, nutty dish called Himmas Kassa, preserved in a medieval Egyptian cookbook.
Instead of being blended silky smooth, it was coarse, full of texture, and mixed with walnuts, fresh herbs, and spices like cinnamon, ginger, and caraway. It was served at banquets as one of the opening courses, showing off the host’s refinement and generosity.
What I love most about this dish is how it reflects the sophistication of the medieval Islamic world. Food was never just fuel. It was art, medicine, and culture all on one plate. Every garnish, from pistachios to olives, spoke of wealth, trade, and attention to beauty. Tasting it today is like taking a bite straight out of history.
I recreated Himmas Kassa and it’s a delicious surprise. A little sharper, nuttier, and more rustic than modern hummus, but it has a depth that makes you feel its age and importance. Dip it with flatbread and you can imagine yourself at a medieval banquet in Cairo.
Full recipe is live here 👉 https://eatshistory.com/medieval-hummus-recipe-one-of-the-first-recorded-recipes-himmas-kassa/
