If you’ve ever eaten a Middle Eastern dish with a bright, tangy flavor that reminded you of lemon, there’s a good chance sumac was involved.
Sumac is a colorful spice known for its tart, citrus-like flavor. It’s commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking and is an easy way to add brightness to food without adding lemon juice or vinegar.
But what exactly is sumac, what does it taste like, and how do you use sumac powder? Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Sumac?
Sumac is a spice made from the berries of certain varieties of the sumac plant. The berries are dried and ground to create the deep red to burgundy-colored sumac powder commonly used for cooking.
It has been used for generations throughout Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, where you’ll find it sprinkled over finished dishes as well as incorporated into spice blends, marinades and dressings.
Unlike many spices that add heat, sumac is prized for its tart flavor.
What Does Sumac Taste Like?
Sumac has a tangy, tart and slightly fruity flavor.
Many people compare its flavor to lemon or lemon zest, although sumac has its own distinctive berry-like character.
Because of that acidity, sumac can brighten foods that might otherwise taste rich or heavy. It works especially well with olive oil, vegetables, grains, dips and savory proteins.
And despite its rich red color, sumac isn't a hot or spicy seasoning.
What Is Sumac Used For?
One of the best things about sumac is how simple it is to use. You don't need a special recipe—try sprinkling it anywhere you'd like a little extra tartness.
Some of our favorite ways to use sumac include:
- Sprinkled over hummus
- Tossed with roasted vegetables
- Added to salads
- Mixed into salad dressings
- Sprinkled over rice or grain bowls
- Used to season chicken, meat or fish
- Mixed into marinades and sauces
- Sprinkled over dips
- Added to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes
You can also put sumac on the table alongside salt and pepper and use it as a finishing spice.
Is Sumac Used in Za'atar?
Yes. Sumac is commonly used in za'atar blends, where its tart flavor complements herbs and sesame seeds.
Za'atar recipes and regional blends vary, so the exact ingredients and proportions aren't always the same.
If you enjoy making your own spice blends, keeping sumac in your pantry gives you the flexibility to adjust the tartness to your preference.
Sumac Powder vs. Sumac Berries
When you're shopping for sumac for cooking, you'll often find it already ground and sold as sumac powder or ground sumac.
This makes it easy to sprinkle directly onto food or incorporate into recipes without additional preparation.
Ground sumac is especially convenient for dressings, marinades, spice blends and finishing dishes.
How Much Sumac Should You Use?
If you're new to sumac, start with a small amount and taste as you go.
Because its primary contribution is tartness rather than heat, you can easily adjust the amount depending on how bright you want the finished dish to taste.
Try a light sprinkle over hummus or roasted vegetables first. Once you get familiar with its flavor, you'll quickly find other places to use it.
What Can I Substitute for Sumac?
Sumac has a distinctive flavor, so there isn't a perfect substitute.
If a recipe calls for sumac and you don't have it, lemon zest or a small amount of lemon juice may provide some of the brightness you're looking for. However, the finished dish won't have quite the same flavor as one made with actual sumac.
How Should Sumac Be Stored?
Like most spices, sumac should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Buying spices in smaller quantities can also make it easier to use what you purchase rather than letting a large container sit forgotten in the back of the spice cabinet.
Where Can You Buy Sumac in Tampa?
If you've been searching for sumac in Tampa, you don't have to buy a large container just to try it.
Life Essentials Refillery carries Organic Sumac Powder by the ounce at our South Tampa refillery. Bring your own container or purchase the amount you need from us.
We're located at 4317 W El Prado Blvd in South Tampa, and Organic Sumac Powder is also available to order online.