The vibrant, crimson-colored spice known as sumac has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. With its tangy, slightly sour flavor and aroma, sumac adds depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes, from savory meats and starchy vegetables to fresh salads and crunchy snacks. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of color and excitement to your meals or simply want to explore the rich culinary traditions of the Middle East, we’ve got you covered with these 18 zesty sumac recipes that will transport your taste buds on a journey across the region.
From classic kebabs and hearty stews to refreshing salads and crunchy snacks, each recipe in this collection showcases the versatility and flavor-enhancing properties of sumac. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, these sumac-spiced delights are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
Sumac-spiced grilled chicken skewers
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of sumac spice with tender, juicy chicken. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a show-stopping appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons sumac powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional)
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, sumac powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of yogurt, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Sumac and lemon roasted vegetables
This recipe brings together the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon with the warm, earthy taste of sumac to elevate your roasted vegetables. The result is a dish that’s both familiar and exotic, perfect for adding a twist to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, Brussels sprouts)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp sumac powder
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other herbs of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, sumac powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from the oven and season with additional salt, pepper, and any desired herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fattoush salad with sumac dressing
This classic Middle Eastern salad is a refreshing blend of crispy bread, crunchy vegetables, and tangy sumac dressing. With its simplicity and bold flavors, Fattoush is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, parsley)
– 2 cups stale pita bread, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons sumac powder
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, pita bread, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sumac powder, olive oil, and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sumac-infused hummus with pita
This classic Middle Eastern dip gets a burst of flavor from the addition of sumac, a tangy and aromatic spice. Serve it with warm pita bread for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon sumac
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 pita breads
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, sumac, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor running, slowly add the olive oil through the top.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Warm the pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
6. Serve the hummus with the warm pita breads.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sumac and garlic roasted potatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional roasted potatoes, this recipe combines the brightness of sumac with the pungency of garlic for a delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground sumac
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, sumac, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sumac-marinated lamb chops
Elevate your lamb chops with a burst of Middle Eastern flavor from sumac’s tangy, citrusy goodness. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 tablespoons sumac
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together sumac, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Place the lamb chops in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the sumac marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C).
5. Remove lamb from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook lamb chops for 8-10 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness is reached.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Note: For a more intense sumac flavor, let the lamb rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Sumac and herb flatbread
This fragrant flatbread combines the tangy flavor of sumac with the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for accompanying your favorite dishes. With its crispy crust and soft interior, it’s a delicious addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sumac powder
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water, stirring until dough forms.
3. Knead for 5 minutes, then rest for 10 minutes.
4. Divide dough into 2-3 portions, depending on desired thickness.
5. Roll out each portion to a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
6. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with sumac powder, and top with parsley and cilantro.
7. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sumac-spiced roasted cauliflower
This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe adds a burst of citrusy flavor to roasted cauliflower, perfect for a side dish or snack. The sumac spice adds a tangy, slightly sweet note that pairs well with a variety of cuisines.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground sumac
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, sumac, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
5. If desired, squeeze lemon juice over the cauliflower during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sumac and pomegranate molasses chicken wings
Elevate your wing game with this exotic flavor combination, perfect for a unique dinner party or sporting event. The tangy sumac and sweet pomegranate molasses create a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sumac powder
– 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, sumac powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings and toss until coated evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While wings are baking, whisk together pomegranate molasses and Greek yogurt.
7. Remove wings from oven and toss with the pomegranate glaze until coated evenly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Sumac-seasoned fried halloumi
This recipe adds a burst of Middle Eastern flavor to the classic Cypriot cheese, halloumi. The sumac seasoning gives it a tangy, slightly sweet, and utterly addictive taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon sumac powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Cut the halloumi into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
4. Dredge the halloumi cubes in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Dip the floured halloumi in the buttermilk, then coat in a mixture of sumac powder and a pinch of salt.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the halloumi cubes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Sumac and tahini yogurt dip
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing dip that combines the tanginess of yogurt, the nuttiness of tahini, and the warmth of sumac. Perfect for veggie sticks, pita chips, or as a sauce for grilled meats or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons tahini paste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground sumac
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, and sumac until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled with your favorite dippers or use as a sauce.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling time)
Sumac and mint cucumber salad
This refreshing salad combines the cooling flavor of cucumber with the zesty warmth of sumac and the brightness of mint, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 4 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons sumac powder
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cucumber slices, sumac powder, mint leaves, and garlic.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time only)
Sumac-rubbed salmon with citrus glaze
Elevate your salmon game with this Middle Eastern-inspired recipe that combines the brightness of citrus with the warmth of sumac.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp sumac powder
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sumac powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the sumac mixture all over the salmon fillets.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the salmon for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked halfway through.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together orange juice and honey.
6. Brush the citrus glaze over the seared salmon during the last minute of cooking.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sumac and za’atar roasted nuts
Elevate your snacking game with this flavorful combination of sumac and za’atar roasted nuts. The tangy, slightly sweet flavors will transport you to the bustling markets of the Middle East.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pistachios)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp sumac powder
– 1 tsp za’atar
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, sumac powder, and za’atar.
3. Add the mixed nuts and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Spread the nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sumac-spiced beef kofta kebabs
Elevate your kebab game with the addition of sumac, a Middle Eastern spice that adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor to these beef koftas. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sumac
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, olive oil, sumac, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired kebab size.
4. Thread each portion onto skewers, leaving a small space between each kofta.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Sumac and olive oil focaccia
Elevate your bread game with this flavorful focaccia, infused with the tangy flavor of sumac and the richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sumac powder
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining cup of flour, kneading the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle sumac powder evenly over the dough, followed by a drizzle of olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Sumac and tomato onion salad
This refreshing salad combines the tangy flavor of sumac with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and onions, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1 tablespoon sumac powder
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and thinly sliced onions.
2. Sprinkle the sumac powder evenly over the top of the tomato mixture.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, making sure everything is coated with a thin layer of oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None!
Sumac and lemon grilled shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a summer evening. Sumac’s tangy citrus notes pair beautifully with the brightness of lemon, creating a harmonious union that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sumac powder
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, sumac powder, lemon juice, and garlic.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Remove shrimp from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to add a burst of Middle Eastern flavor to your meals with these 18 zesty sumac recipes! From classic dishes like hummus and fattoush salad, to innovative twists on grilled meats and roasted vegetables, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner or impress your guests at a dinner party, sumac’s tangy, slightly sweet flavor is sure to elevate any dish.
