Sumac Seasoning Blend | How to Make & Use
The red tree that taste citrusy!
Sumac is one of those plants that has likely watched you grow up without getting much of a second glance until later years. At least this is what sumac is to me, a protective plant I never even noticed until now.
Sumac brings in a vibrant and lemony brightness that feels instantly uplifting. Those deep red berries have been used in kitchens around the world for ages being appreciated for their tangy zip and ability to cut through richer and fattier flavors. It’s one of those ingredients that surprises you with how much character it adds with just a small pinch.
I have enjoyed using sumac when I need a little something that wakes up the palate and adds a light, refreshing twist. It blends beautifully into dressings, seasoning blends, roasted dishes, and anywhere you’d normally reach for citrus. The flavor is bold but easy to work with, making it perfect for experimenting and adjusting to your own taste.
I highly suggest playing around until you find your flavor ;)
Why it is Bright and Healthful
THYME -> Tucked into kitchen remedies and seasonal sinus brews, thyme brings a gentle warmth that supports overall well-being. The aromatic compounds can offer light digestive support and add an earthy balance to blends. A small pinch deepens sweetness and complements bright botanicals like hibiscus and rose hips.
MARJORAM -> Marjoram adds a soft and sweet herbal warmth that feels instantly calming. The gentle aromatic qualities can offer light digestive support and help round out overall flavor.
OREGANO -> Often added to hearty kitchen remedies, oregano brings a bold and ‘pungent’ flavor that feels both invigorating and comforting. Its naturally supportive qualities can offer light digestive benefits while adding depth to a blend.
LEMON PEEL -> Often included in bright kitchen blends and seasonal teas, lemon peel brings a lively citrus lift that instantly freshens a recipe much like our sumac. Often suggested as a replacement for this delicious spice.
RED ALAEA SALT -> A Mineral salt used in traditional Hawaiian cooking and vibrant kitchen blends. Red alaea salt brings a mineral-rich depth that feels both grounding and nourishing. The natural clay content offers a subtle earthiness that rounds out flavors and adds gentle body to a recipe. A small pinch can heighten sweetness and balance out bitterness.
* All recipes and ideas shared here are for educational and informational purposes. Everyone’s body is different, use what feels right for you and seek professional guidance when needed.
Ingredients & Suggestions
<Amounts are listed below in printable>
<Herbs & Minerals>
Oregano
Thyme
Marjoram Blend
Lemon Peel
Sumac
Alaea Salt
Completely transform this blend by testing different blends. Sumac is said to pair deliciously with Chili, Cumin, and Allspice for some ideas.
Welcome!
Hey, I’m Brit. I help you blend the comfort of the kitchen with the care of the apothecary.
You’ll need:
Clean jar
Scale/Measuring Spoons
Funnel
Dried Herb
Instructions
(1) GATHER your Herbs. You can use separate bowls or measure into the same container. If you want the layered aesthetic, then measure all your herbs separate.
(2) MEASURE: Measure using your preferred method. (I used a scale for the bulk batch, and spoons to layer the individual jars)
(3) LAYER: Layer your herbs if desired. I didn’t layer for this one but did for my Fire Cider Seasoning Blend for gifting.
(4) LABEL: Label your new seasoning blend, and brainstorm how you want to use it! Try it in soups or stews, or even infuse as a healthful tonic.
(5) GIFT: This could make a lovely gift for the holidays. Tie a tag with some twine around the lid to create a cute label. To be extra fancy you could use ribbons or add a recipe card to go with it!
A note on our ingredients
This recipe was built around warmth, depth, and that steady kitchen-apothecary feel. Each ingredient has a role, from the sour highlights of sumac and lemon peel to the warming blend of thyme, oregano, and marjoram.Originally created as a bold and cozy tonic, this blend works beautifully year-round as a spirited base or a gently activating afternoon sip. Feel free to play with it by adjusting the heat, adding more citrus, or softening the spice until it fits your palate.
<PAIRING TIPS>
Sumac Seasoning is a bright and unique ally that partners well with other herbs/foods:
Hibscus
Elderberry
Rosehips
Ginger
Shisandra
Orange Peels/Citrus (Anytime you plan to use lemon for brightening the flavor, you can consider a sprinkle of sumac!
Other Recipes & Resources
Learn how to make Fire Cider Seasoning → [Read More]
Materia Medica Blank Pages → [Purchase Here]
Sign-Up for → ‘Find your Flavor’
Trusted Source for Herbs → [Purchase Here]
Find your Flavor FREE Workbook → [Get Freebie]
Learn how to make Hibiscus of Horror Mocktail → [Read More]
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