Crushed Sumac
Rhus coriariaClinical Encyclopedia
Crushed sumac is a tangy spice made from the dried and ground berries of the sumac plant, known for its vibrant red color and sour flavor. It is commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine to add a zesty kick to dishes.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Crushed sumac can be used as a seasoning for meats, salads, and dips. It is best added at the end of cooking to preserve its flavor.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose crushed sumac that is bright red and aromatic, indicating freshness.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve flavor.
Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds
Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.
Known for their antioxidant properties, tannins can help protect cells from damage.
"Sumac has been used since ancient times and was a popular spice in Roman cuisine."
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Sumac-Spiced Quinoa Salad
A refreshing quinoa salad with a tangy sumac dressing, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon crushed sumac
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1. Rinse quinoa under cold water, then combine with water in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed.
- 2. In a large bowl, mix cooked quinoa, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley.
- 3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, crushed sumac, and salt. Pour over the salad and toss to combine.
Sumac Roasted Chickpeas
Crispy roasted chickpeas seasoned with crushed sumac, making a healthy and addictive snack.
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon crushed sumac
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2. Pat chickpeas dry with a paper towel and place in a bowl. Toss with olive oil, crushed sumac, garlic powder, and salt.
- 3. Spread chickpeas on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Sumac and Herb Grilled Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken marinated with sumac and fresh herbs for a flavorful and healthy main dish.
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons crushed sumac
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, crushed sumac, thyme, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
- 3. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Sumac Avocado Toast
A nutritious avocado toast topped with crushed sumac for an extra zing, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
- 2 slices whole-grain bread
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon crushed sumac
- Salt to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1. Toast the whole-grain bread until golden brown.
- 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado with crushed sumac and salt.
- 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toasted bread and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
Sumac-Spiced Roasted Vegetables
A colorful medley of roasted vegetables seasoned with sumac, perfect as a side dish or salad topping.
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon crushed sumac
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- 2. In a large bowl, toss the vegetables with olive oil, crushed sumac, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
Sumac and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, feta, and sumac, baked to perfection.
- 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons crushed sumac
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, feta, crushed sumac, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the quinoa mixture and place in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.
Sumac Yogurt Dip
A creamy yogurt dip infused with sumac, perfect for pairing with fresh veggies or whole-grain pita chips.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon crushed sumac
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, crushed sumac, olive oil, garlic, and salt.
- 2. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- 3. Serve chilled with fresh vegetables or pita chips.
Sumac Lemonade
A refreshing twist on traditional lemonade, infused with the tangy flavor of crushed sumac.
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup
- 2 tablespoons crushed sumac
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices for garnish
- 1. In a pitcher, combine lemon juice, water, honey, and crushed sumac. Stir well until honey is dissolved.
- 2. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- 3. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices.
Sumac and Spinach Omelette
A healthy omelette packed with spinach and flavored with crushed sumac, perfect for a nutritious breakfast.
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon crushed sumac
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1. In a bowl, whisk eggs with crushed sumac, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add spinach and sauté until wilted.
- 3. Pour the egg mixture over the spinach and cook until set, then fold and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is crushed sumac?
Crushed sumac is a spice made from the dried berries of the sumac plant, known for its tangy flavor.
How do you use crushed sumac in cooking?
It can be sprinkled on salads, used in marinades, or added to dips for a zesty flavor.
Is crushed sumac healthy?
Yes, it is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Where does crushed sumac come from?
It originates from the Middle East and is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine.
Can crushed sumac be used in desserts?
While not common, it can be used in some desserts for a unique flavor.
Is crushed sumac safe for everyone?
Generally, it is safe for most people, but those with allergies to sumac should avoid it.
How should crushed sumac be stored?
It should be kept in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can crushed sumac be used as a substitute for lemon juice?
Yes, it can provide a similar tangy flavor in dishes.