Sumac Substitute: 9 Ways to Keep Your Dishes Tangy

Sumac, known for its tangy, lemony flavor and vibrant red color, is essential in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cooking. It adds refreshing tartness to dishes like salads and grilled meats, making it a kitchen favorite. For a deeper dive, check out my detailed article on sumac.

I am one of those who is always curious to try something new! One of the simplest and best substitute for sumac is lemon zest mixed with a pinch of salt - its fruity flavor really shines through with this alternative!

While the substitutes I tried bring a tangy element similar to sumac, they won’t perfectly replicate its unique floral notes and acidity. Each substitute will slightly alter the final flavor profile of your dish, which might work better for some recipes than others. Choose the best sumac substitutes based on the dish you are cooking.

1. Za'atar Mix

Za'atar Mix is a fantastic substitute for sumac, thanks to its tangy and earthy flavor. It’s a staple in Middle Eastern kitchens, perfect for enhancing flavors in various dishes. Although there are different variants, this blend's most common ingredients are thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac, which gives it that familiar zing.

You can sprinkle it over hummus for an extra kick or use it as a seasoning for meats before grilling. It's also perfect for livening up your bread; just mix it with a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar and dip away.

For a flavor boost, try briefly toasting the za'atar before using it. This simple step can enhance the mix's aromatic qualities, making your dishes even more delicious.

2. DIY Sumac

Creating a DIY Sumac substitute is simple and effective, capturing that tangy and slightly earthy flavor you love. By mixing basic ingredients like fresh lemon zest and a bit of salt and beetroot powder, you can mimic sumac’s unique taste in no time.

This homemade blend is great for adding zest to salads and a fun twist to grilled meats.

Feel free to experiment with the mix until you get the perfect hue and tartness; adjusting the lemon zest or adding a pinch of citric acid can do the trick. If you’re ready to try it out, check out the recipe card for detailed instructions and tips to perfect your mix.

3. Citric Acid and Smoked Paprika

Using citric acid and smoked paprika as a substitute for sumac offers a unique flavor combination. Citric acid provides a sharp tartness, while smoked paprika adds a rich depth with a hint of smokiness.

This blend is especially effective in dry rubs or when you want to add a smoky edge to your dishes, like grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.

However, keep in mind that this mix doesn’t have sumac's floral notes, which might slightly alter the expected flavor profile. If you're aiming for authenticity, consider this a creative twist rather than a direct replacement.

4. Tamarind Powder

Tamarind powder is a great substitute for sumac, offering a tart and slightly sweet flavor that closely matches sumac's acidity. If you're preparing dishes like salads, kebabs, tabbouleh or zesty gyro where sumac is usually used, tamarind powder can add a similar tangy kick.

In terms of color, tamarind may darken the dish slightly compared to the vibrant red hue sumac offers, but it still provides a great twist.

When using tamarind powder, start with about half a teaspoon to avoid overpowering your meal. This ensures you maintain the intended flavor while adding a unique depth that complements both Middle Eastern and other savory dishes.

5. Pomegranate Molasses

Pomegranate molasses is a handy substitute for sumac, offering a sweet and sour flavor that can work well in recipes like fattoush or muhammara.

Its rich taste is perfect for glazes, marinades, and dressings, especially in sweet-savory combinations.

However, keep in mind that its darker color might change the appearance of your dish, so it’s best used in recipes where color isn’t crucial. Whether you're creating a marinade for lamb or drizzling over roasted cauliflower, pomegranate molasses can add a rich, tangy twist that's both delicious and versatile.

6. Dried Hibiscus Flowers

Dried hibiscus flowers can be a vibrant substitute for sumac, offering a tart, floral flavor and a striking red hue. They're perfect for dishes like salads, dressings, and even as a colorful garnish.

Epicurious suggests steeping dried hibiscus flowers in hot water, where they release a rich, tart flavor and a deep red hue. This liquid can then be used to impart a similar tang and visual appeal as sumac.

Whether you're enhancing a salad or creating a unique dressing, dried hibiscus flowers can provide a refreshing, bold twist to your dishes.

7. Dried Mango Powder (Amchur)

Dried mango powder, or amchur, is a sour and slightly sweet substitute for sumac, perfect for adding a tangy punch to dishes like curries, chutneys, and spice blends.

Its unique flavor profile can enhance marinades or spice up roasted vegetables and meats, offering a zest reminiscent of sumac.

In recipes like Zhug or Harissa, it can introduce an unexpected twist of tanginess. Similarly, it can be used in blends like Ras el hanout or even sprinkled into Za'atar to provide an extra layer of flavor. Start with a teaspoon, adjusting as needed for the desired tanginess.

8. Lemon Juice and Ground Coriander

Lemon juice and coriander powder can effectively replace sumac in dishes, offering a bright and earthy flavor combination. This duo works wonderfully in recipes like marinades, dressings, and salads.

The citrusy element of fresh lemon juice captures the tang you’d expect from sumac, while coriander adds a subtle earthy sweetness, enhancing dishes such as tabbouleh or a zesty vinaigrette.

Keep in mind that this combination won't provide the red hue typical of sumac. Start with the juice of half a lemon and a pinch of coriander to balance the flavors, adjusting as needed to suit your taste.

9. Sour Cherry Powder

Sour cherry powder is a bright substitute for sumac, known for its tart and slightly sweet taste and bright red color.

It's great for dishes that benefit from sumac's tangy flavor, like dressings, marinades, and even desserts. This powder can add a lively touch to Middle-Eastern salads or bring depth to fruit-based sauces.

To use sour cherry powder, mix it with other spices for more complex flavors. Start with about a teaspoon to get the right tartness, and adjust as you need. Whether you're making a vinaigrette or adding color and flavor to a dessert, sour cherry powder is a flexible option.