Forktionary

Sumac

Rhus coriaria Spice

Sumac Spice

At a Glance

  • Category Spice

The Forktionary Angle

"The tart secret weapon that brings bright, zesty life to dishes without adding liquid."

Definition

A tangy, purplish-red spice made from ground dried berries of the sumac bush, adding a distinctive lemony, astringent note to Middle Eastern cuisine.

Antioxidant Properties Rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C.
Primary Culinary Use Sprinkled over salads (like Fattoush), grilled meats, and dips (like hummus).
Traditional Preservation Historically used to preserve foods and tenderize meat.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Sumac are:

Tangy sour fruity lemony slightly astringent earthy

Chef’s Secret

For a deeper, more pronounced lemony flavor and color, 'bloom' sumac by steeping it in a small amount of warm water or oil for 5-10 minutes before adding to dressings or marinades.

Best Substitutes

Lemon Zest

for fresh tang
Ratio 1:1

Lemon Juice

for acidity, but adds liquid
Ratio 1:1

Tamarind Paste

for sourness, different flavor profile
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for whole, dark red berries or coarsely ground sumac with a vibrant color. Avoid brown or faded sumac, which indicates staleness. Store in an airtight container.

Culinary Pairings

Grilled meats salads hummus labneh roasted vegetables rice dishes chicken

Recipes Using Sumac

Acili Ezme Turkish Style Tomato Dip Condiment image 110
Middle Eastern 4 Hours Or Less Preparation Dips

Acili Ezme Turkish Style Tomato Dip Condiment

Experience the explosion of flavors in this Acili Ezme, a vibrant Turkish tomato dip! Perfect as a condiment for shish kebabs or a zesty salsa with toasted French bread, this recipe uses top-quality tomatoes (or high-quality canned diced tomatoes in a pinch) for the ultimate taste sensation. The secret ingredient? Sumac! This essential spice adds a unique tang you won't want to miss. Feel free to experiment with different chili peppers like Thai or habanero to customize the heat. Prepare to be amazed by this easy-to-make, yet incredibly flavorful dip!

See Complete Recipe
Adana Kebab image 139
Main Dish Cuisine Main Ingredient Time To Make

Adana Kebab

Experience the fiery flavors of Turkey with this authentic Adana Kebab recipe! Named after Turkey's fourth-largest city, this kebab boasts a succulent blend of lamb and veal, marinated overnight for maximum tenderness. The secret ingredient? Zesty sumac, easily found in Middle Eastern markets or online – trust us, it makes all the difference! Prepare for a culinary journey as you grill these flavorful skewers to perfection, then tuck them into warm pita bread with creamy yogurt sauce and a vibrant red onion relish. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

See Complete Recipe
Azerbaijani Kefir And Greens Soup image 154
Pasta Rice And Grains Course Eggs Dairy Diabetic

Azerbaijani Kefir And Greens Soup

Inspired by Gil Marks' "Olive Trees and Honey," this vibrant Azerbaijani kefir (or yogurt) soup is a refreshing and flavorful experience. Featuring tender split peas, fluffy rice, and a burst of fresh herbs, this unique soup is traditionally served warm after the main course. The subtle tang of kefir perfectly complements the earthy greens, creating a surprisingly light and satisfying finish to any meal. Get ready to impress your guests with this culinary gem!

See Complete Recipe