What is sumac used for?
A friend of mine told me she uses sumac (I am not sure she was teasing me, or what). Is sumac used in cuisine? If it is used, what is it used for?
Best Answer
Sumac is commonly used a tart flavoring element in the eastern Mediterranen region. Historians believe that it was the common sour element in cooking for that area prior to domestication of lemons. It is a characteristic seasoning element in Fatoush, a Syrian bread salad.
It's not usually available in the mainstream spice section of most grocery stores. The best place to locate it is in mid-eastern markets, delis, upscale stores such as Dean & Deluca or online through Penzey's or the Spice House.
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Quick Answer about "What is sumac used for?"
1. It is a standard ingredient in za'atar, a popular Mediterranean spice blend used to top everything from pita to lamb chops. 2. It is commonly dusted over a variety of dishes—such as meats, salads, breads, and desserts—as a colorful garnish, and to lend a touch of citrusy acidity.What can you do with sumac?
We love sumac in marinades and rubs, in spice mixes for seasoning roasted and grilled meats. Try sprinkling a pinch of sumac over hummus and creamy dips, salads, side dishes, and fish. Here are some of our favorite recipes that get a flavor kick from sumac.What is sumac taste like?
It has a pleasant tangy taste with a hint of citrus fruitiness and virtually no aroma. An essential ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine, sumac is used in spice rubs, marinades and dressings, and is also served as a condiment.What are the health benefits of sumac?
Sumac is one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory spices out there. It ranks high on the ORAC chart, which means it's packed with antioxidants and has the ability to neutralize free radicals that can cause cancer, heart disease, and signs of aging. Sumac is also a beneficial ingredient for those with type 2 diabetes.What is the sumac spice used for in cooking?
Cooking With Sumac It is a versatile spice, and can be added to a meat rub, used as a flavoring in vegetable dishes (such as eggplant), and is the perfect seasoning for homemade hummus. Sumac is an ideal match for lamb and duck as it cuts through the fattiness of the meat.More answers regarding what is sumac used for?
Answer 2
The fruit of some varieties is used in traditional Middle Eastern cuisine. They dry it and use it like paprika (though it's flavor is more citrusy.)
Make sure you get the right kind. Sumac runs the gamut between edible and poisonous.
Answer 3
It's used in Mediterranean cooking, though I don't know why more people don't use it. There were shakers of it on each table at a restaurant I used to go to before its nearby location closed - http://www.sorrentogrill.com/. Anyways, my favorite thing to get there was the Braised Chicken on Wednesdays. I would heavily sprinkle sumac on it!
The sumac gave a great earthy, slightly acidic, and very slightly salty flavor. It was the reason I got the dish - because I knew I could have the sumac with it!
They also served warm pita with a yogurt sauce. I would add sumac to that yogurt sauce, along with some salt, for a great way to start the meal.
You should definitely get some and experiment with it. It's certainly not a strange taste, just a very pleasing combination of flavors you don't get from other spices. If you ask me, it also has a hint of mushrooms.
Answer 4
Sumac is a major component in zatar, a Mideastern spice blend. Goes very well with any meats, especially beef, goat, and lamb.
Answer 5
- salads of any kind
- if you make any deep fried food (such as falafel) dip them once into sumac, it adds an amazing flavor
- on top of dips
- in meat loaf / meat ball type dishes
Answer 6
I asked the same question to one of my friend, we do not use sumac that much either. He basically said whenever you eat onion use sumac. I tried couple times it works. You can add it to any salad. I make onion salad with sumac, very easy. Mix onion and sumac and squeeze it by hands. It goes great with hot dog, burger etc.
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