Sumac

Powdered Sumac

Sumac has a tart flavor that is very nice sprinkled on fish, chicken, over salad dressings, rice pilaf, or over raw onions. Try substituting in any dish on which you might squeeze fresh lemon juice. If you enjoy hummus, try topping it with a sprinkling of sumac. It's delightful!

The same berry that we ignore growing on a roadside bush is considered essential for cooking in much of the Middle East, in the same manner as we use lemon juice or vinegar. Sumac has a very nice, fruity-tart flavor which is not quite as overpowering as lemon. The Romans used sumac frequently before lemons were available to them. In addition to their very pleasant flavor, flakes from the berry are a lovely, deep red color which makes a very attractive garnish.

Cuisines and Categories

• Middle Eastern

Recipes with this Spice