Sumac is a dark red powder that's used to add flavor to a variety of dishes in Middle Eastern cuisine. It is harvested from the sumac fruit (berries) that grows in Iran, Yemen, Turkey, Africa, and North America, among others. The berries are dried and ground into coarse powder.
The powder is characterized by a lemony, tart, slightly vinegar-like flavor that's used to flavor salads, meat dishes, baklava, bread, marinades, and dressings. You can find ground sumac in most Middle Eastern markets. It's recommended to store it in an airtight container in a dark and cool place so that the powder doesn't lose any of its potency.