Spice Spotlight: Zesty Sumac

The Hidden Gem You Didn’t Know Your Kitchen Needed

Looking for that one spice that instantly levels up your cooking, the kind that makes people go, “Wait…what did you put in this?” but they can’t quite figure it out?
Welcome to the Spice Spotlight, where today, we’re shining a bright, zesty (not in the way you’re thinking) spotlight on one of the most underrated flavour-boosters in Trinidad: Sumac.

Globally, sumac is having a moment and for good reason. This bold, ruby-red spice has long been a staple in Middle Eastern kitchens, but it’s slowly making its way into everything from roasted veggies in Brooklyn to avocado toast in London. And honestly? It deserves a spot in your kitchen too.

So What Does It Taste Like?

Sumac gives you that citrusy spark like a lemon squeeze, but without the juice. It’s tangy, a little tart, and just a touch sweet (think: green apple or rhubarb vibes).

Imagine the brightness of a fresh squeeze of lime, but in dry spice form. That’s sumac.

And unlike vinegar or lemon juice, it won’t make your food soggy or overpower your dish. Instead, it adds brightness. Like a natural “lift” that makes everything taste fresher and more balanced.

Great with grilled meats, salads, dips, seafood, basically anything that needs a pop of freshness or a little zing.

A Little Sumac Story

Sumac has been used for centuries across the Middle East. Before lemons were widely available, sumac was the go-to ingredient for adding acidity to food, from rice and grilled meats to hummus and fattoush salad.

Today, chefs around the world are putting it in everything from cocktails to compound butters. It’s that versatile. Here in Trinidad, most people haven’t tried it yet. But that’s what makes it exciting, you get to be early. You get to be the “I was using sumac before it was cool” person at the table.

The Power Combo: Sumac + Za’atar

Now here’s a little flavour magic…

If you really want to unlock next-level flavour, pair Sumac with Za’atar.
Za’atar is a Middle Eastern blend that already includes sumac, but it adds toasted sesame seeds, thyme, and earthy spices like coriander and cumin.

The result? Tangy, herby, nutty goodness that you can sprinkle over literally anything:

• Flatbreads
  
• Avocado toast
  
• Grilled fish or lamb
  
• Roasted sweet potatoes
  
• Popcorn (yes, try it)
  

It’s flavour without the fuss. And it’s one of the easiest ways to feel like a culinary genius with zero effort.

For the Everyday Cook: “Just Tell Me What to Do”

If you’re like me and just want quick, easy, tasty, this section’s for you. No expert chef talk, no long list of steps. Just the gist.

Here’s how to use Sumac like a pro… without being one:

• Sprinkle it on a fresh salad – tomatoes, lettuce, cucumber, boom.
  
• Mix into plain yogurt for a 2-second dip that tastes fancy.
  
• Add to your next grilled chicken or fish marinade – just a pinch!
  
• Shake some over roasted veggies right before serving.
  
• Add to hummus (store-bought or homemade) for a pop of flavour.
  
• Try it on eggs, baked potatoes, or even popcorn for something different.
  

Pro tip: Think of Sumac as a finishing touch, like salt, but zesty (again, not that kind of zesty).

Bonus Recipe: Sumac-Lemon Grilled Chicken

Let’s put this spice to work with a quick recipe that’s simple, juicy, and full of flavour.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
  
• 1 tsp ground sumac
  
• Juice of half a lemon
  
• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
• ½ tsp garlic powder
  
• Salt & pepper to taste
  

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl or ziplock bag and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
   
2. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through and golden.
   
3. Sprinkle a little more sumac on top right before serving.
   

Boom. Bright, juicy, and low effort. Develop over time as needed, you’re welcome!

Before You Go…

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Let me know in the comments:
What spice should I cover next?
Maybe my personal favorite… Korean Chili Flakes?

For the casual cooks out there, think gourmet-style ramen noodles, going from broke to boujee in 5 minutes flat.

Thinking about trying these?
Click here to shop Sumac or Za’atar and start experimenting in your own kitchen.
You might just discover your new favorite spice.

Thanks for reading.
Until next time, keep your dishes bold and your spice game even bolder.

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