The Ultimate Salt Free Seasoning

July 4, 2022

Sumac - Premium Flavour Without The Need Of Salt

BBQ BOX UK gives you the opportunity to not allow your salt free diet to get you down in the dumps with our unique and versatile selection of salt free seasonings and rubs suitable for meat, fish and vegetables!

You would be forgiven for not knowing what sumac spice is. When opening your spice rack or checking out the latest seasonings in the supermarket, sumac is commonly not among the group!

This vibrant red/purple spice offers the perfect alternative to salt as it brings out foods natural flavour. You may be wondering there for what sumac actually tastes of? Well as a red spice it actually tastes a lot like lemon juice - though not as tart!

What Is Sumac?

Sumac is often found in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Known for its salt like qualities, the seasoning also has a lemony taste however is not as tart or acidic as a lemon.

A relative of the cashew nut, sumac is created from bright red berries which are dried and crushed into a grounded spice. It can be used in a variety of ways from being added into the cooking process of foods to sprinkling over the top (a lot like table salt).

Used often in Lebanese dishes, this ruby red spice has been used in cookery for over 2000 years and has been well known for its health properties, namely as a diuretic and anti-flatulent. Loved by the Roman Emperor Nero's physician, Pedanius Dioscorides, the romans would often use sumac as a substitute for lemons (which had not made their way into Europe at this point).

What Are The Health Benefits Of Sumac?

Along with its great, unique taste, sumac spice itself is known for having many health benefits. From lowering BP to controlling blood sugars, sumac is a fantastic spice that you should consider adding to your store cupboard today!

Benefits Of Sumac:

Lower blood pressure ²
Control blood sugar levels ¹
Reduce triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels ³
Decrease the risk of heart disease among people with type 2 diabetes ¹
Decrease muscle pain during exercise ⁴
Improve insulin resistance ^{5, 6}
Boost leptin levels, which may help suppress appetite ¹
Decrease fat absorption ⁷
Reduce the risk of oxidative stress ⁸
Decrease bone loss ⁹
Ease respiratory and digestive complaints
Ease discomfort of urinary tract infections
Help the body fight unwanted inflammation
Help support the body during cold and flu season ¹⁰

How To Use Sumac?

Interested in giving sumac spice a whirl but unsure how to use it? Then fear not, BBQ Box UK have a comprehensive guide on how sumac can be used in a wide range of dishes and drinks! Sumac spice is extremely versatile and can be used in a manor of ways. Listed below are just some of our favourite ways to use sumac in your cookery.

Fruit smoothies (it mixes well with fruits and yogurt)
As a dry rub to use on a variety of meats
In marinades
In dressings and vinaigrettes
Added to yogurt sauces
As part of za’atar, which is a mixture of sumac, sesame seeds, salt, thyme, and other spices
Sprinkled over foods before serving, such as

Vegetables
Lamb
Chicken
Fish
Eggs
Tofu
Salads and fresh greens (especially when combined with mint)
Rice and other grains
Bread
Hummus and other dips
Sour cream
Beans (especially chickpeas and black-eyed peas)
Popcorn
Bloody Mary drinks

In “Sumac-Ade” or Sumac Tea
Combined with yogurt and fresh fruit (and perhaps a touch of honey)

Looking for more cooking inspiration? Then why not check out our sumac roasted chicken and vegetables recipe - a great choice for your Sunday roast dinner!

Who Should Not Eat Sumac?

As sumac comes from the cashew nut family, it is not recommended for people who suffer with nut allergies. Especially those who are allergic to tree nuts. It is also not recommended for people who struggle with their weight, are underweight or people who have difficulties maintaining their weight. People who are currently taking blood pressure tablets (such as beta blockers) and/or cholesterol tablets/medication should also avoid sumac or should speak to a health care professional prior to consuming this popular spice.

How To Store Sumac?

Sumac spice can be stored easily in an air tight container and can be kept for up to 7 months. It is also advised to keep the sumac out of light and heat. There for storing it in a dark kitchen cupboard is a great bet.

Back to blog