on Mar 09, 2022, Updated Nov 27, 2023 Here are some more lemonade recipes that you may like: Rosemary Gin Lemonade, Activated Charcoal Lemonade, Strawberry Basil Lemonade, Mulberry Lemonade, and Mango Ginger Lemonade. Mohit went to Dubai last week and bought me a lot of spices and dried fruits from the spices souk. The quality of sumac there is unmatchable, so he got me a big batch. I am now on a spree to use it in multiple ways. This lemonade is one of the recipes I tried using it and it was a hit. Do try!
About Sumac Lemonade
Sumac Lemonade is a delicious twist on the classic lemonade recipe with added sumac (a lemony-earthy flavored spice). To make this version, a simple syrup infused with dried sumac powder (or staghorn sumac drupes) is made, and this syrup is then added to the regular lemonade ingredients to give it a very earthy, refreshing, and unique taste. This delicious lemonade can be made using dried sumac spice powder or fresh berries. I like to use dried powder as it is much easier to source and can be made year-round. Add a splash of white gin, vodka, or tequila to make a lovely cocktail for your next house party. My recipe will make enough sumac syrup to make 10 glasses of lemonade. You can easily double or triple the recipe for a crowd. Sumac is a vine or shrub-like tree that grows in subtropical and temperate regions worldwide, including East Asia, Africa, and North America, mostly in the wild. It has small berries (called drupes) that are tart and citrusy in taste. It can be used in many recipes and is loaded with health benefits. Dried sumac powder is easily available in grocery stores or online. Check the spice section of the grocery store. You can replace sugar with honey or maple syrup. To Make The Lemonade – Sumac syrup is mixed with club soda (soda water), or seltzer and freshly squeezed lemon juice to make this refreshing drink. You can replace lemon juice with lime juice, too. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally while cooking. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add 3 tablespoon ground sumac to the saucepan, stir to combine, and allow to infuse for 15 minutes. Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer or a coffee filter. This syrup is good enough to make 8-10 glasses of lemonade. Pour ¼ cup of sumac syrup into the glass. Top with 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, top the glass with club soda or seltzer, and stir gently. Check for sweetness and add more syrup if you like your drink sweeter. Garnish with a slice of lemon and a few mint leaves, and serve immediately.