Sumac once served as the tart, acidic element in cooking prior to the introduction of lemons by the Romans. This tart, lemony red spice is harvested from shrubs in the Middle East and traditionally sun-dried. This version from Turkey is cured with salt to develop notes of sour cherry and cranberry. It is excellent on kebabs. Interestingly, its use gave rise to the tradition of pink lemonade in America. Sumac is a household staple in middleeastern countries, much like salt and pepper in the United States. The plant is actually a member of the cashew family, just like pink peppercorns are. This particular sumac is cured and comes from Turkey specifically. Instead of being dried, this sumac is chopped and packed in salt. This dark red powdered berry had a nutty texture with a tart, sour lemon with a slightly fermented taste. Sumac can be used as you would lemon and salt, in dishes from Chicken, fish, vegetables or hummus. Ingredients: Sumac, salt.
Recipes
I actually found The Spice House trying to find a quality source of sumac. After enjoying it as a very pleasant surprise at a number of Middle Eastern restaurants, one day I said I just HAD to find out what that magical spice was, and bring some home with me! I'm now tempted to put it on just about everything... I love it on top of hummus, eggs, veggies - really everything. Goes best as a garnish on top instead of being added during cooking.
This is a truly wonderful Sumac. When I made my Za'atar the sumac blended in nicely. Since it is made from a berry, sometimes the spice can be a bit "damp" and difficult to blend.
LOVE this stuff! The lemony zing and the tad of spicy allows me to add it to SO many dishes. I use it on racks of lamb, jerky, grilled vegetables, the works! I couldn't believe how fast my boyfriend, mother and I went through the jar... already have another flat pack on the way... if only it came in a bag, lol!
The spice house Sumac is the best Sumac I have found in the US. In my opinion, it is comparable to iranian sumac, which is supposed to be the best in the world. This sumac is fresh, vibrant with flavor, and rich in color. Use it on cooked rice, meats, and vegetables. Add it to salads or salad dressings. Or, do what my daughter does: eat a small bowl of it for a sour snack packed with antioxidants. Highly recommended!
This was my first Spice House purchase. Wow, I am very impressed with the spice quality and overall customer experience. The website is easy to navigate and the online ordering process was smooth and without issue. My spice packet arrived quickly and I was pumped to make my chicken schwarma salad recipe. Both my husband and I loved it! Thanks, Spice House.
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