Unlocking Sumac’s Magic: A Culinary Guide to What is Sumac and How to Use It

Welcome to RecipeKick’s sumac celebration, where culinary magic meets flavorful delight!

Our love for sumac goes beyond words, even inspiring a haiku:

Sumac is the best.

I am obsessed with sumac.

I just love sumac.

Here at RecipeKick (and the Courageous Cooking School at La Pitchoune), sumac holds a special place as the culinary world’s unsung hero. Our CEO Makenna’s favorite is the cured sumac by Burlap and Barrel – more than a spice, it’s an acidic, slightly salty, brightness explosion that transforms every dish into a realm of stupid deliciousness.

What is Sumac?

Sumac, derived from the dried fruit of Rhus coriaria, is a Middle Eastern, Asian, African, and Mediterranean gem. Nature’s jewels, those red, pea-sized clusters, are noticeable in the wild, but a word of caution – not all sumac varieties are safe. Stick with the Syrian version for a kitchen-safe experience.

Beyond flavor, sumac is a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with antioxidants – tannins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids – it’s your ally against pollution and free radicals. Studies hint at potential liver damage reduction and heart health promotion, thanks to naturally occurring oleic acid. Don’t overlook the fiber content; sumac supports digestion and overall well-being.

Our favorite sumac? Burlap and Barrel’s cured sumac. Infused with malic acid, the same magic found in Warheads candy, it’s not just better than sliced bread; it’s the pinch of sunshine that adds delightful fruitiness to everything it touches.

How to Use Sumac in Your Kitchen:

Now that you’re on board with sumac, here are some culinary suggestions to make it dance in your kitchen:

Sprinkle on Salads: Elevate your salads with a citrusy zing by sprinkling sumac, especially delightful with fresh greens and tomatoes.

Marinate Meats: Add depth and tantalizing tartness to grilled delights by mixing sumac into marinades for meats.

Rev Up Roasted Veggies: Toss sumac with olive oil over roasted vegetables for a flavor explosion that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

Popcorn Power: Follow Makenna’s lead and sprinkle sumac on popcorn for an unexpected twist, turning movie nights into a gourmet experience.

Boost Your Dips: Stir sumac into yogurt-based dips for a tangy kick, leaving your taste buds thanking you.

Ready to elevate your sumac affair? Here are a couple of ideas to spark your culinary creativity:

Sumac Roasted Chicken: Marinate chicken with sumac, olive oil, garlic, and lemon for a zesty twist. Roast until golden brown for a flavor-packed delight.

Sumac-infused Hummus: Elevate your hummus game by adding a generous sprinkle of sumac. It’s a simple tweak that turns a classic into a culinary masterpiece.

Sumac Citrus Salad: Create a refreshing salad with mixed greens, citrus fruits, and a sumac-infused vinaigrette.

However you choose to tango with sumac, we’re sure you’ll have a delightful time. So, grab that sumac shaker, let loose and happy experimenting!

For more sumac-infused inspiration, check out our livestreams and recorded classes on RecipeKick where we have fun with exciting and innovative spices, like sumac, everyday!