What is sumac? Sumac is a tangy, deep-red spice made from dried and ground berries. First, the small red berries are harvested from the sumac shrub. Then they are dried and crushed into a coarse powder. As a result, sumac adds a bright, lemony sourness to food. It is a staple across Turkish and Middle Eastern kitchens.
In this guide, we explain how the spice tastes and where it comes from. We also cover its many uses and how to cook with it. Finally, we show you where to enjoy it in Kuala Lumpur.
What does sumac taste like?
The flavour is fresh and tangy. Sumac tastes lemony, tart and slightly fruity. Meanwhile, it has none of the bitterness of citrus peel. Because it is so bright, it lifts rich, savoury food. So a light sprinkle wakes up a whole dish.
Where does the spice come from?
It grows on a hardy shrub across the region. In fact, the berries turn a deep crimson when ripe. Farmers dry them in the sun, then grind them. The result is a coarse, ruby-red powder. So it reaches the kitchen ready to use.
What is it used for?
This spice is wonderfully versatile. Cooks sprinkle it over grilled meats and kebabs. Meanwhile, it seasons salads, rice and dips. It also tops flatbreads and roasted vegetables. So it works from the grill to the salad bowl.
Sumac in Turkish and Middle Eastern cooking
Few spices are so loved across the region. It dusts the onions served beside minced lamb kebabs. Meanwhile, it brightens a grilled meat platter and fresh salads. It is also a key part of the za’atar blend. So sumac appears again and again.
How to cook with sumac at home
Using it is simple and forgiving. First, sprinkle a little over grilled chicken or lamb. Then toss some through a salad with olive oil. You can also mix it with sliced onions for a tangy side. So a small jar goes a long way. You can buy premium sumac from our online store, Mahnaz Food, to try it yourself.
Is it good for you?
It can be a flavourful, natural choice. The spice comes purely from dried berries. Meanwhile, it adds big flavour without salt or sugar. So you get plenty of taste with very little else.
Where to taste it in Kuala Lumpur
Curious about that tangy, lemony kick? Then try it at Lalezar, a halal Turkish, Mediterranean and Persian restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. Taste it on our grills, salads and mezze. So explore the full Lalezar menu, or find your nearest branch. We welcome you across three locations: Ampang, USJ Heights and Centrepoint Bandar Utama.
Frequently asked questions
What is sumac in simple terms?
Simply put, it is a tangy, lemony red spice made from dried, ground berries, used to season food across the Middle East.
Is it spicy or hot?
No. Despite the red colour, it is not hot at all. Its flavour is sour and lemony rather than spicy.
What can you use instead?
A little lemon juice or zest gives a similar tang. However, nothing quite matches the depth of the real spice.