Toasted Sumac
Spices
Nutri-ScoreB

Toasted Sumac

Rhus coriaria

Clinical Encyclopedia

Toasted sumac is a spice made from the dried and ground berries of the sumac plant, known for its tangy, lemony flavor. It is commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine to enhance the taste of various dishes.

Also known as:
Sumac (Middle East)Sumac Spice (Global)
Scientific NameRhus coriaria
Region of OriginMiddle East

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories30 kcal
Water
10%
Fiber3g
Total8.5g
Protein
1g(12%)
Fats
0.5g(6%)
Carbohydrates
7g(82%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C3 mg (3%)
Vitamin E0.5 mg (3%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (6%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.5 mg (3%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.2 mg (4%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin K: 1 mcgFolate: 5 mcgVitamin B12: 0 mcgCholine: 2 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium20 mg (2%)
Iron0.5 mg (3%)
Magnesium10 mg (2%)
Potassium100 mg (3%)
Zinc0.2 mg (2%)
Copper0.1 mg (5%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Phosphorus: 5 mgSelenium: 0.2 mcg

Health Benefits

Rich in antioxidants, toasted sumac may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
Contains compounds that may aid in digestion and improve gut health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Toasted sumac can be used as a seasoning for meats, salads, and dips. It is best added towards the end of cooking to preserve its flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose toasted sumac that is vibrant in color and has a strong, tangy aroma.

How to Store

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its flavor.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Digestive
Main Applications
Flavor enhancer in culinary dishes
Potential digestive aid
Bioactive Compounds
Tannins

May help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

Flavonoids

Known for their antioxidant properties.

How to Consume
Sprinkled on salads, Mixed into marinades, Added to dips
Did you know?

"Sumac has been used since ancient times, not only as a spice but also for its medicinal properties."

Myths vs Realities

MythToasted sumac is just a seasoning.
RealityToasted sumac has medicinal properties and is rich in antioxidants.
MythAll sumac is toxic.
RealityOnly certain types of sumac are toxic; culinary sumac is safe to consume.
MythToasted sumac is only used in Middle Eastern cuisine.
RealityWhile popular in Middle Eastern dishes, toasted sumac can enhance flavors in various cuisines.

Healthy Recipes

Sumac-Spiced Quinoa Salad

A refreshing quinoa salad with a zesty sumac dressing, packed with vegetables and protein for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sumac
  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, toasted sumac, and salt.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine before serving.

Toasted Sumac Roasted Chickpeas

Crispy roasted chickpeas seasoned with toasted sumac for a flavorful and healthy snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sumac
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. Toss chickpeas with olive oil, toasted sumac, garlic powder, and salt.
  3. 3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through.

Sumac-Infused Grilled Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken marinated in a sumac and herb blend, perfect for a healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sumac
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, toasted sumac, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Marinate chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill chicken over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.

Sumac and Avocado Toast

A nutritious twist on classic avocado toast, topped with toasted sumac for added flavor.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sumac
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: cherry tomatoes for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the bread slices until golden brown.
  2. 2. Mash the avocado in a bowl and season with salt, pepper, and toasted sumac.
  3. 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toasted bread and top with cherry tomatoes if desired.

Toasted Sumac Vegetable Stir-Fry

A colorful vegetable stir-fry with a hint of toasted sumac, perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sumac
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. 2. Add garlic and mixed vegetables, sautéing until tender.
  3. 3. Stir in toasted sumac and salt, cooking for an additional minute before serving.

Sumac-Spiced Lentil Soup

A hearty lentil soup infused with toasted sumac for a unique flavor profile and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sumac
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, toasted sumac, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender, then serve.

Toasted Sumac Hummus

A creamy hummus with a twist of toasted sumac, perfect for dipping veggies or spreading on wraps.

Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sumac
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Water as needed
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, blend chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, toasted sumac, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
  2. 2. Add water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh vegetables or pita bread.

Sumac-Crusted Baked Salmon

Delicious salmon fillets coated with a sumac spice blend, baked to perfection for a healthy dinner option.

Ingredients
  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sumac
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Mix olive oil, toasted sumac, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. 3. Brush the mixture over the salmon fillets and bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.

Toasted Sumac Cauliflower Rice

A low-carb alternative to rice, this cauliflower rice is seasoned with toasted sumac for a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, grated into rice-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sumac
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. 2. Add cauliflower rice and sauté for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  3. 3. Stir in toasted sumac, salt, and pepper before serving.

Sumac and Herb Tabbouleh

A fresh and vibrant tabbouleh salad featuring toasted sumac, parsley, and bulgur for a healthy side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup bulgur wheat
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup finely chopped parsley
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped mint
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sumac
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Soak bulgur in boiling water for 20 minutes, then drain.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine bulgur, parsley, tomatoes, mint, toasted sumac, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
  3. 3. Mix well and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is toasted sumac?

Toasted sumac is a spice made from the dried and ground berries of the sumac plant, known for its tangy flavor.

How do you use toasted sumac?

It can be sprinkled on salads, used in marinades, or added to dips for a zesty flavor.

Is toasted sumac healthy?

Yes, it is rich in antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Can toasted sumac be used in cooking?

Absolutely, it is often used in Middle Eastern dishes and can enhance the flavor of meats and vegetables.

Does toasted sumac contain any calories?

Yes, it contains approximately 30 calories per 100 grams.

Is toasted sumac gluten-free?

Yes, toasted sumac is naturally gluten-free.

Where can I buy toasted sumac?

It can be found in Middle Eastern grocery stores or online.

How should toasted sumac be stored?

It should be kept in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.