Sumac

Sumac

Not to be confused with the poison sumac plant that flourishes in North America (although it is a close relation), sumac spice comes from berries harvested from a bush that can be found in the wild all across the Mediterranean. Sumac has a tart flavor that is sprinkled on fish, chicken, over salad dressings, rice pilaf, or over raw onions. It is considered essential for cooking in much of the Middle East, in the same manner as we use lemon juice or vinegar. Sumac has a very nice, fruity-tart flavor which is not quite as overpowering as lemon. The Romans used sumac frequently before lemons were available to them. In addition to their very pleasant flavor, flakes from the berry are a lovely, deep red color which makes a very attractive garnish.