What Is Sumac?
If you enjoy Mediterranean or Middle Eastern cuisine, you might already appreciate the tart flavor of sumac, even if you don't know its name. Sumac is less known in the U.S. than common spices like cumin or paprika. This spice is derived from the berries of the sumac plant and adds both flavor and color to dishes.
But what exactly is sumac? And isn't sumac poisonous? The spice comes from Northern Italy, Turkey and Iran, and it lends a bright, citrusy flavor to food. In Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking, sumac is as common as chile powder in Mexican cuisine or garam masala in Indian dishes.
Ready to explore the vibrant taste of sumac in your own kitchen? Here’s how you can start incorporating this exotic spice into your meals.
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What Is Sumac?
Sumac is a spice made by grinding the berries of the sumac plant, which thrives in high, dry and rocky climates like those found in Northern Mediterranean countries. This makes sumac a common ingredient in Middle Eastern cooking. If you’ve ever used za’atar, sumac is one of the main ingredients in that spice blend.
What Does Sumac Taste Like?
Sumac is easily identifiable by its unique dark red color in spice form, yet it tastes much lighter and brighter. Compared to other spices, the best comparison for sumac's flavor would be lemon juice, though sumac delivers a bolder punch. It’s also found in popular za’atar spice mixtures. Sumac adds acidic complexity to dishes and imparts its gorgeous red color.
What Does Sumac Look Like?
Sumac is made from the red berries of the sumac plant. When ground into a spice, it has a dark red color and a texture similar to ground nuts. You will almost always find sumac in ground form, though it is sold in whole dried berries in some parts of the world.
Is Sumac Poisonous?
You may have heard of poison sumac, poison ivy’s more aggressive cousin. The poison sumac plant comes from the same family as the sumac plant used to make sumac spice, but the poisonous variety has white berries instead of red. Therefore, sumac spice is safe to eat. That said, it is important to consider the source when buying sumac. Make sure to choose a reputable website or grocery store when purchasing this ingredient.
Is Sumac Edible?
Sumac berries and spice are both edible. Typically, sumac berries are dried and crushed into a spice powder, but sumac berries are sometimes boiled and pressed to extract the essential oils. Sumac oil can then be mixed with olive oil or vinegar for a sumac-flavored condiment.
Cooking With Sumac
Learning from professional chefs can help you understand the subtleties of sumac and other lesser-known spices that are unfamiliar to you. Check out cooking classes near you that feature Middle Eastern dishes, as those chefs will certainly know how to work with sumac. You can also learn about cooking with spices through online cooking classes.
What is sumac good for as far as cooking? Sumac is more versatile than you may think for a spice you’d barely heard of. Because the flavor of sumac is bright and citrusy, it pairs well with many foods including meats, seafood and vegetables. It also lends a deep red color to foods, similar to the way turmeric will bring a bright yellow color to foods that incorporate it.
Perhaps you’re wondering what sumac spice is and how it’s used in Middle Eastern cuisine. Sumac spice is commonly used as a meat rub for lamb or duck. It gives eggplant a red hue that is common in Mediterranean dishes and it is a great spice to use in flavoring homemade hummus. One of the best ways to use sumac is to sprinkle it over finished foods for an acidic kick.
Is Sumac Healthy?
Spices generally offer numerous health benefits and sumac is no exception. Although its nutritional profile is not as well-defined as some other foods, sumac is rich in antioxidants, which are advantageous for a healthy diet. These antioxidants can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Some research suggests that sumac may help control blood sugar levels, too, which is beneficial for those managing diabetes. Additionally, sumac has been traditionally used to alleviate muscle aches and reduce inflammation, making it a valuable addition to your diet.
Where To Buy Sumac Spice
Ready to give this exotic spice a try? You can find sumac in specialty shops and spice stores. Look for it alongside other Middle Eastern staples like za’atar or fenugreek. Sumac is also available online from reputable retailers. When purchasing sumac, ensure you choose a trustworthy source. Check for packaging or expiration dates to guarantee freshness and quality. Some brands may also offer organic options, which are free from pesticides and additives.
How To Store Sumac
Another common question about sumac and other similar ingredients is "Do spices expire?" In short, yes, they can lose their potency over time. Storing sumac properly will help maintain its flavor and effectiveness. Keep sumac in an airtight container to protect it from moisture and air exposure, which can cause it to lose its vibrant color and flavor. Store the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources, such as stoves or ovens. It's also good practice to label the container with the purchase date. For optimal freshness, replace your sumac every three to six months. If you buy sumac in bulk, consider storing a smaller amount in your spice rack and the rest in the freezer to prolong its shelf life.
One of the best ways to enhance your cooking without adding calories is to experiment with spices. Most of us have a jar of cumin or paprika on hand, but there is much more to explore. Sumac may sound exotic, but it is surprisingly easy to pair with a variety of foods. Next time you visit the international foods section of your grocery store, grab some sumac and use it to replace lemon in dishes you’re already comfortable with. There’s no telling where your taste buds will take you from there.
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