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?
Do you want to add a lemony and zesty touch to your ordinary meals? Sumac spice, with all its tartary flavor, awaits to bring magic to your dishes. It is a versatile spice with a unique lemony and tangy flavor and is frequently used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking. Its distinct flavor and vivid crimson-colored hue make it popular for spicing up foods like rice, meats, and salads. However, depending on where you are, it could occasionally be difficult to find. If you’re looking for sumac substitutes, there are a few delicious options that will help you get a similar flavor profile.
1. Salt and Lemon Zest
The first among the sumac spice substitutes is lemon zest. A quick and easy replacement for ground sumac can be made by combining lemon zest with salt. Lemon zest adds a tart, citrusy tone, while salt brings out the flavor, simulating the savory notes of sumac. This blend tastes great in marinades, salad dressings, and salads. Grate the zest from one lemon and combine it with a small amount of salt to make this alternative. In your recipes, use it in a 1:1 ratio in place of sumac spice. Believe me, among all the substitutes for sumac, this one is sure to tantalize the tastebuds.
2. Lemon Juice as Sumac Substitute
Who doesn’t know about the lemon juice? Whenever one tries to bring savory flavor to their recipes, lemon juice is one readily available choice. However, it is one of the sumac spice substitutions and alternatives that also brings an easy taste. Lemon juice works well as an alternative to sumac, particularly in recipes calling for liquid ingredients like salad dressing. It has a tartness that is a lot like sumac. But pay attention to the additional liquid content. Use half a teaspoon of lemon juice for every teaspoon of sumac that is needed. Make adjustments based on taste, being careful not to add too much bitterness to the dish.
3. Vinegar as Sumac Substitute
If you don’t want to add deep red colored spice in your recipes, we have got you a perfect substitute for sumac seasoning. In many recipes, vinegar—especially red wine or apple cider vinegar—can be used instead of sumac. The flavor of these vinegars is similar. Red wine vinegar tastes richer, whereas apple cider vinegar has a hint of fruitiness. Use vinegar carefully, reducing to taste after half the amount of sumac needed. The greatest uses for vinegar are in marinades, sauces, and cooked foods where the liquid content isn’t a concern.
4. Tamarind as Sumac Substitute
Tamarind is known to have a tangy flavor, which is somewhat similar to sumac. This flavor note makes it a great substitute for sumac spice. A powerful alternative to sumac is tamarind paste or concentrate, which has a tart and slightly sweet taste. Indian and Southeast Asian cuisines frequently use it. Because tamarind has a strong flavor, start with a small amount when substituting it. Use a quarter teaspoon of tamarind paste for every teaspoon of sumac, tasting as you go. In stews, sauces, and meat dishes, tamarind is a great addition.
5. Amchoor (Dried Mango Powder)
Asian and Middle Eastern homes know about amchoor as a quality addition to every recipe. Amchoor, or powdered dried mango, is another great substitute for ground sumac. It tastes tart with a hint of fruitiness, akin to the characteristics of sumac. Amchoor is a common ingredient in Indian cooking that gives food a tangy taste. Use the same amount, tasting as you go, as sumac. It is effective in curries, vegetable dishes, and dry rubs.
6. Pomegranate Molasses as Sumac Substitute
Last but not least, pomegranate molasses makes a great substitute or replacement ingredient for sumac. Pomegranate molasses is a thick, syrupy reduction with a tart and sweet taste made from pomegranate juice. It can still deliver the necessary sharpness even though it is richer in sweetness than sumac. Use it gently, adjusting to taste after double the amount of sumac called for. Pomegranate molasses is a great addition to glazes, sauces, and marinades.
You can check out other quality substitutes to sumac seasoning 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