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Small Batch, Grand Flavor • Est. 1995

Spice 101

Summary

Sumac stands out in the world of spices due to its unique, tart, and lemony flavor which is derived from the deep cabernet-colored berries of the Rhus glabra. This spice is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, famously sprinkled over kebabs, stirred into yogurt dips, and even used to add a zesty kick to rice dishes. It’s the go-to spice when you want to introduce a refreshing complexity to your meals without any added salt or artificial flavors.

History

Sumac has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, primarily rooted in the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean regions. Historically, it was not just a culinary staple but also used for its dyeing and medicinal properties. The Romans, for example, used sumac as a souring agent, a testament to its enduring appeal across different cultures. In Middle Eastern cuisine, sumac has been a key ingredient for centuries, used to add a lemony zest to meats and salads, demonstrating its versatility and integral role in traditional culinary practices.

Across different cultures, sumac's application varies but its core characteristic—its tangy flavor—remains the cornerstone of its popularity. In North America, sumac has been somewhat underappreciated until recent years when its culinary potential has begun to be explored more broadly, integrating into modern dishes and fusion cuisines that highlight its unique flavor profile.

Why We Love It

For its ability to infuse a burst of flavor into almost any dish. Its tart, almost vinegar-like zest works wonders on simple salads, grilled meats, and even over fresh avocados. It's our secret weapon in the kitchen for when a dish needs a touch of brightness without overpowering the other delicate flavors. Whether we are whipping up a Middle Eastern feast or just looking to spruce up a weekday dinner, sumac is our go-to for a reliable punch of flavor.

The More You Know

For an unexpected twist, try using sumac as a dry rub on meats before grilling or roasting. Its tartness balances out the richness of the meat, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. You can also mix it with olive oil and drizzle it over roasted vegetables or fresh pita bread for a simple yet flavorful dish!

Recipes

    Syrian Za'atar Tomato Beet Salad

    Syrian Za'atar Tomato Beet Salad

    15 min

    Syrian Za'atar is a glorious mix of sumac, toasted sesame seeds and spices, creating a nutty, tangy flavor explosion. When sprinkled on this salad, it adds a rich, earthy depth that pairs beautifully with the sweet roasted beets and juicy grape tomatoes. The creamy avocado, fanned out on top, adds a luscious texture that won't make you miss the cheese.

    Moroccan Chicken Salad

    Moroccan Chicken Salad

    1 hr, 5 min

    Discover the delectable flavors of our Middle Eastern Chicken Salad, featuring our beloved Cascade Mushroom Mix. Infusing the marinade with this mix was a game-changer, intensifying the umami goodness and making the chicken irresistibly "meatier". In this salad, we combine the mushroom mix with exotic Moroccan Ras El Hanout, creating a sweet, spicy, and complex medley. With the addition of grapes, pears, and walnuts, this dish becomes a delightful option for a satisfying lunch or a light supper.

    Grandma's Lemon Wedges

    Grandma's Lemon Wedges

    You can never have too many lemon bar recipes, but this one is the only one that you need. This was my Grandma's recipe, and the stains on the recipe card are a testament to how often it's been made. Most lemon bars are made too sweet to cut the tartness of the lemon, but the addition of the glaze in this recipe balances out the sweet and tart lemon flavor perfectly. Sometimes I add poppy seeds to the shortbread crust or sprinkle sumac on top just for fun. These can be made in a square pan and cut into bars, but look pretty cut in wedges too. Make these and I'm sure that they will disappear as quickly as they always did in our home.

View more recipes for Sumac

Notes

Type
Single Ingredient
Flavor Notes
Sour • Citrus • Floral
Region
Mediterranean
Botanical Name
Rhus glabra
Established 1995
Small Batch
Filler-Free
Vegan
Gluten-Free
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Sumac