Sumac

Exploring the connection of food and culture

The Syrian kitchen, shaped by influences from neighboring countries, has deep historical roots and evolved to perfection over thousands of years.
Sumacis filled with traditional and contemporary Syrian recipes that were inspired by personal stories. The gorgeous photography illustrates how beautiful this country was and still is, and family photographs add depth to the authors history. Each chapter is filled with the authors memories of family celebrations and the country that inspired the book. He tells stories of traditional weekend breakfasts in his grandmothers garden and of the mezze his mother cooked for family gatherings. There are memories of the rich aromatic flavors of the Syrian kitchen where fragrant spices like the lemony and deep red sumac are prized ingredients.

In the authors words: With this book, I hope to build a bridge between Syrian culture and the rest of the world, with food the common denominator. But even more, I hope that Sumac will present a positive image of my country, in spite of all the unfortunate events now taking place in Syria.
Over eighty recipes, inspired by the authors family recipes and his travels
Beautiful location photography by Rania Kataf, who shot Humans of Damascus
For anybody curious about a country so often in the news headlines but so difficult to visit as a tourist