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Spice lovers all over the world love trying out new recipes with a mix of different spices. The chefs from different regions gathered and introduced a new flavor in the form of sumac. This spice is known to belong to the cashew family and tastes a bit lemony and spicy. Middle Eastern regions use sumac in a variety of dishes, from grilled meat to roasted one, to enhance their flavor profile. However, there are some people who might not prefer adding sumac to their recipes, so we have brought five amazing sumac substitute picks that will add the same flavor note to your dishes. Just like cayenne pepper, the sumac is bright red in color but with a different flavor profile. So, without further ado, let’s talk about sumac alternatives.
What is Sumac Spice?
Want to add a tangy, citrusy twist to your meals? Sumac spice, with its vibrant flavor and bold crimson hue, is here to transform your dishes.
A staple in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking, sumac brings a zesty kick to rice, meats, and salads. But if it’s hard to find where you are, don’t worry; there are tasty substitutes that can deliver a similar flavor profile.
- Lemon zest or juice for a bright, citrusy touch.
- Vinegar for a sharp and tangy flavor.
- Tamarind paste for a deeper, slightly sweet tang.
- Amchur (dried mango powder) for a fruity tartness.
Salt and Lemon Zest
Flavor Profile: Bright, citrusy, and savory! This combo mimics Sumac’s tangy punch with the zest of lemon and a hint of saltiness.
- Mix the zest of one lemon with a pinch of salt.
- Use a 1:1 ratio to replace sumac in salads, dressings, and marinades.
Lemon Juice
Flavor Profile: Fresh, tangy, and super zesty; lemon juice is like sumac in liquid form!
- Use ½ teaspoon of lemon juice for every teaspoon of sumac.
- Perfect for salad dressings or recipes with liquid ingredients.
Vinegar
Flavor Profile: Sharp, tangy, and slightly fruity, red wine or apple cider vinegar brings sumac vibes without the red hue.
- Start with half the sumac amount needed and adjust to taste.
- Best for marinades, sauces, or cooked dishes.
Tamarind
Flavor Profile: Tangy with a touch of sweetness; tamarind packs a bold, sumac-like punch.
- Use ¼ teaspoon of tamarind paste for every teaspoon of sumac.
- Works wonders in stews, sauces, and meat dishes.
Amchoor (Dried Mango Powder)
Flavor Profile: Fruity and tangy, amchoor offers a bright, sour kick reminiscent of sumac.
- Use the same amount as sumac, tasting as you go.
- Great for curries, dry rubs, or vegetable dishes.
Pomegranate Molasses
Flavor Profile: Sweet, tangy, and syrupy, pomegranate molasses delivers a rich depth of flavor.
- Use double the amount of sumac called for, adjusting to taste.
- Ideal for glazes, marinades, and sauces.
You can check out the detailed recipe for how to make pomegranate molasses in this article.
Conclusion
Wrapping up, the article covered six top-rated alternatives for sumac seasoning. So, if you don’t prefer this crimson-colored seasoning for your recipes, try adding the above-mentioned substitutes and enjoy your meal to the fullest.
