Ground Sumac
Rhus coriariaClinical Encyclopedia
Ground sumac is a tangy spice made from the dried berries of the sumac plant, commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It is known for its vibrant red color and sour flavor, which adds a unique zest 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
Ground sumac can be sprinkled on salads, meats, and vegetables, or used in marinades and dressings to enhance flavor.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose ground sumac that is bright red in color and has a fresh, tangy aroma.
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.
May help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
Known for their antioxidant properties.
"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 zesty sumac dressing, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 tablespoons ground sumac
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together the ground sumac, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve chilled.
Sumac Roasted Chickpeas
Crispy roasted chickpeas seasoned with ground sumac for a healthy snack or salad topping.
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon ground sumac
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- 2. Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, ground sumac, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
- 3. Spread the chickpeas on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until crispy, stirring halfway through.
Sumac and Herb Grilled Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken marinated in a fragrant sumac and herb mixture, ideal for a healthy dinner.
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons ground sumac
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a bowl, mix ground sumac, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- 2. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
- 3. Grill the chicken over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
Sumac and Avocado Toast
A nutritious avocado toast topped with ground sumac for a tangy twist, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
- 2 slices whole grain bread
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 tablespoon ground sumac
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes
- 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
- 2. Mash the avocado in a bowl and mix in ground sumac, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toasted bread and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.
Sumac-Lemon Hummus
A creamy hummus infused with the tangy flavor of sumac and lemon, perfect for dipping or spreading.
- 1 can chickpeas, drained
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons ground sumac
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- 1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, ground sumac, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and salt.
- 2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to reach desired consistency.
- 3. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of sumac on top.
Sumac-Spiced Roasted Vegetables
A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with ground sumac for a vibrant and healthy side dish.
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon ground sumac
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- 2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, ground sumac, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
Sumac Yogurt Dip
A creamy yogurt dip flavored with ground sumac, perfect for pairing with fresh veggies or pita chips.
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons ground sumac
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, ground sumac, olive oil, minced garlic, and salt.
- 2. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- 3. Serve chilled with fresh vegetables or pita chips.
Sumac and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of quinoa, spinach, and ground sumac for a wholesome meal.
- 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 tablespoons ground sumac
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, chopped spinach, ground sumac, feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.
Sumac and Lentil Soup
A hearty lentil soup infused with the tangy flavor of sumac, perfect for a comforting meal.
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons ground sumac
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
- 2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, ground sumac, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
Sumac-Cucumber Salad
A light and refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy sumac dressing, perfect for summer.
- 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons ground sumac
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1. In a bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and red onion.
- 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together ground sumac, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture, toss gently, and serve chilled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is ground sumac?
Ground sumac is a spice made from the dried berries of the sumac plant, known for its tangy flavor.
How can I use ground sumac in cooking?
It can be used to season meats, salads, and vegetables, or added to marinades and dressings.
Is ground sumac healthy?
Yes, it is rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Where can I buy ground sumac?
Ground sumac can be found in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online.
Can ground sumac be used as a substitute for lemon juice?
Yes, it can provide a similar tangy flavor in recipes.
Does ground sumac have any side effects?
No significant side effects have been reported when consumed in normal dietary amounts.
How should I store ground sumac?
Store it in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I use ground sumac in baking?
While not common, it can be used to add a unique flavor to certain baked goods.