When it comes to adding a burst of flavor to your meals, sumac is a spice that deserves attention. With its tangy, slightly sour taste and vibrant red color, sumac has been used for centuries in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. From grilled meats to roasted vegetables, sumac can elevate a wide range of dishes with its unique flavor profile. In this article, we’ll explore 17 zesty sumac recipes that will add excitement to your meals. Whether you’re looking for inspiration for dinner or want to spice up your snacks, these recipes are sure to delight.
Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers
Add a burst of Middle Eastern flavor to your summer gatherings with these aromatic chicken skewers, perfectly seasoned with sumac and grilled to perfection. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll be enjoying these tasty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon sumac powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, sumac, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lebanese Fattoush Salad with Sumac Dressing
A refreshing salad that combines toasted pita bread, crisp vegetables, and a tangy sumac dressing, this Lebanese classic is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, parsley, cilantro)
– 1 cup toasted pita bread, broken into small pieces
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp sumac powder
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Toast pita bread for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, toasted pita bread, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sumac powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sumac-Dusted Roasted Cauliflower
A flavorful twist on roasted cauliflower, this recipe adds a burst of Middle Eastern flavor with the addition of sumac. This dish is perfect as a side or used as a topping for other dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground sumac
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower with olive oil, sumac, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sumac and Garlic Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your roasted potatoes with the bright, tangy flavor of sumac and the pungency of garlic. This recipe is a perfect side dish for your next Middle Eastern-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground sumac
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potato wedges in a single layer.
4. Roast potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through cooking time.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Persian Sumac Rice with Saffron
Elevate your meals with this aromatic and flavorful Persian-inspired rice dish, infused with the warmth of saffron and the tanginess of sumac. This recipe makes a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, stews, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup long-grain basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/2 teaspoon sumac powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the saffron-infused water and cook until slightly reduced, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the drained rice to the saucepan and stir-fry until coated with oil and saffron mixture, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sumac powder and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the remaining 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sumac-Marinated Lamb Chops
Elevate your lamb dishes with the tangy flavor of sumac, a Middle Eastern staple. This marinade adds depth and complexity to tender lamb chops, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb chops
– 2 tablespoons sumac powder
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine sumac powder, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the lamb chops in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat. Remove lamb from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook lamb chops for 4-6 minutes per side, or until they reach desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Sumac and Olive Oil Flatbread
Experience the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine with this simple yet flavorful flatbread recipe. Sumac, a popular spice in many Mediterranean dishes, adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to this crumbly bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon sumac powder
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add in warm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough on a floured surface and shape into a ball.
5. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
6. Brush the flatbread with olive oil, then sprinkle with sumac powder.
7. Cook in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sumac-Spiced Hummus with Pita
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and aromatic hummus recipe, infused with the warm spices of sumac. Perfect for dipping pita bread or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon sumac powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
– Pita bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, sumac powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender running, slowly add olive oil and water. Continue blending until creamy.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve with warm pita bread for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Sumac and Lemon Grilled Salmon
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional grilled salmon, this recipe combines the tangy zest of lemon with the warm, earthy flavor of sumac. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp ground sumac
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, sumac, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the grill, skin side down (if they have skin).
4. Brush the sumac-lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-12 minutes
Sumac-Rubbed Beef Kebabs
Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful Sumac-Rubbed Beef Kebabs, inspired by the bold flavors of the Middle East. The tangy sumac spice blend adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the tenderness of grilled beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons sumac powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 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, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the beef pieces to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Thread beef onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Sumac and Mint Yogurt Sauce
This Middle Eastern-inspired yogurt sauce is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dip for pita bread. The tangy flavor of sumac, combined with the cooling properties of mint, creates a harmonious balance that will elevate any dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon sumac powder (or to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mint, and sumac until well combined.
2. Add the lemon juice and salt; mix until smooth.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Sumac-Infused Onion Rings
Elevate your snack game with these crispy onion rings infused with the Middle Eastern flair of sumac. This simple recipe adds a burst of flavor to a classic favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced into rings
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon sumac powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, sumac powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the sliced onions to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Carefully place the onion rings into the hot oil in batches, being mindful of the temperature.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sumac and Za’atar Roasted Carrots
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of carrots with the bright, citrusy flavor of sumac and the herbaceousness of za’atar. Perfect for a flavorful side dish or as a topping for salads.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp sumac powder
– 1 tsp za’atar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, sumac powder, and za’atar until they are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sumac-Spiced Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of sumac with creamy chickpeas and aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The sumac adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the earthiness of the chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon sumac powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, sumac powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chickpeas and broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sumac and Pomegranate Glazed Chicken
This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe combines the warm, citrusy flavor of sumac with the sweet-tartness of pomegranate to create a glaze that elevates chicken to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground sumac
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sumac, honey, pomegranate molasses, and chicken broth.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sumac and Tahini Dressed Avocado Toast
Elevate your avocado toast game with this Middle Eastern-inspired recipe that combines creamy tahini, tangy sumac, and crispy whole grain bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp sumac
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 slices of whole grain bread (toasted)
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, and sumac until smooth.
3. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
4. Drizzle the tahini-sumac mixture over the avocado in a zig-zag pattern.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sumac-Buttered Corn on the Cob
Elevate your grilled corn game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of corn with the tanginess of sumac. This unique twist is perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp ground sumac
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and ground sumac until well combined.
3. Brush the corn ears with the sumac butter, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
6. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to add a burst of flavor to your meals with these 17 zesty sumac recipes! From classic Middle Eastern dishes like Lebanese Fattoush Salad and Sumac-Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers, to innovative twists like Sumac-Infused Onion Rings and Sumac-Dusted Roasted Cauliflower, there’s something for everyone. Explore the world of sumac, a vibrant red spice that adds depth and warmth to any dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy flatbread or a show-stopping glazed chicken, these recipes are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
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