All-natural, quality sumac is a complex spice–stringent, sour, smokey, and earthy all at the same time! It is the perfect way to add acidity and color to your meals. Description Sumac comes from the Arabic “summaq,” which means “dark red.” It is a deep red, astringent spice popular in Middle Eastern cooking. Sumac is made from the berry fruit of the Rhus Coriaria shrub, which was originally grown in parts of the Mediterranean basin, and then spread to Europe. The sumac berries are dried, then ground and sifted to get rid of the bitter inner seed. The coarse crimson-colored powder is then bottled as a spice. It tastes somewhat like fresh lemon juice – a bit sour and astringent. But it’s much more complex and nuanced in flavor. Sumac is tangy and deep with a hint of earthy sweetness and floral citrus notes.