A New Beginning
Our story kicks off in 1972, when my father and grandmother (Teta) landed in New York City as refugees from Egypt, chasing the American Dream. While my father found success in business, Teta discovered her dream by sharing the rich flavors and cherished recipes of her heritage with her growing family.
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I'm lucky to be one of Teta's grandchildren, and my memories are filled with the sights, sounds, and aromas of her small Brooklyn apartment: those plastic-covered seat cushions, Arabic church playing on the TV, and the mouthwatering smells of lamb, pine nuts, and nutmeg.
This olive-skinned hottie, just happens to be Steve's dad.
Cooks in the Kitchen
Teta's cooking not only brought our family together, but also forged a bond between her and my mother, a professionally trained chef. Despite her limited English, Teta's culinary prowess in Arab cuisine transcended language barriers, and our family gatherings often featured Teta and my mother, squeezed into her tiny kitchen, creating the flavors of my youth. Teta’s Brooklyn apartment became the hub for some of my fondest memories, centered around dishes like molokhia, grape leaves, and kibbeh. Even I began learning Teta's recipes at just 6 years old, with my mother patiently guiding me through each step.
This is Teta, with a mean-muggin' guilt trip for those who betray her with Big Hummus. But you wouldn't do that, would you?
The Cookbook
In 2008, after Teta passed away, my mother honored her memory by compiling these treasured recipes into a family cookbook, preserving the memories and flavors for generations to come. Teta's biggest wish was always to share her food, and that's what Habibi Hummus represents.
Our Product: No Bullsh*t
One recipe from that family cookbook always stood out – Teta's hummus. After making it for friends and family for 16 years, whether at parties, special events, or just ultimate snacking, I realized everyone who tasted Teta's hummus couldn't get enough.
So, here's the deal: I'm sharing my favorite recipe with you – her hummus, Habibi Hummus.
When we say "no bullshit," we mean it. Habibi Hummus contains no additives or preservatives, just top-quality ingredients meticulously blended to capture the essence of Teta's culinary legacy. We're all about staying true to the authentic flavors of hummus, just as she intended.
People often ask us what flavors we offer, but the truth is, we keep it simple: none. Flavored hummus may be a modern Western twist, but we believe in preserving the genuine taste of hummus. Take a bite, and you'll savor the rich, natural flavors of Habibi Hummus – no extras needed.
^ Actual footage of Habibi Hummus being born.
Our Mission
Some people say they hate hummus, but that’s probably because they've only had bland (or even bad tasting) stuff from big brands. But once they taste Habibi Hummus, they realize they don't hate hummus. They hate bad hummus. And if you don’t like it, that’s okay. You’ll just have to take that up with Teta.
At Habibi Hummus, we're on a mission to share the love and flavors that have been passed down through generations. Teta's dream of sharing her food lives on in every batch we make. We hope you make the “right” choice and choose Habibi Hummus as your next snack!
Where It's Made
Habibi Hummus is a proud member of Our Time Kitchen in Baltimore, which supports minority women, and marginalized genders, who want to build food businesses by lowering systemic barriers and creating access to resources in a supportive environment.