These dried berries come from sumac bushes found throughout the Middle East. They are ground to produce sumak, fruity-tart and sour purplish red flakes, often mixed with salt. Sumak is used to flavor salad dressings, dips, and savory dishes. Select sumak that is deep purple-reddish in color. Avoid sumak that is light and pinkish in color; it is not as flavorful.
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