You may not have sumac in your pantry, but watch out as this underrated spice is becoming more and more popular.
What is Sumac?
Sumac comes from the berries of a decorative bush that grows wild in all Mediterranean areas and is an essential ingredient in the cooking of Lebanon, Syria, Turkey and Iran.
It is a key ingredient in Zahter, a very popular spice in southern Turkish cooking.
The dark purple-red berries are sold dried or ground and have a lovely, nearly purple color, and a tart flavor that is reminiscent of vinegar or lemon.
Ground Sumac
Ground sumac is a versatile spice with a tangy lemony flavor. Try substituting it in any dish on which you might squeeze fresh lemon juice. If you enjoy hummus, try topping it with a sprinkling too. It’s delightful!
It goes well with vegetables, grilled lamb, chicken and fish.
Oven-roasted chicken with sumac, pomegranate molasses, chilli and sesame seeds
It’s great sprinkled on salads.
A revelation on eggs!
And finally, it imparts a great refreshing flavor as a syrup in desserts, jellies and drinks, like the sumac soda below.
Click here for more things you can do with sumac.
Sumac is readily available in the UK from Amazon and leading supermarkets.
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