Spice off: Aleppo vs Sumac

Here at Yorks our food has been carefully and lovingly developed to ensure quality. We've sourced the best Aleppo Chilli and Sumac on the market to season our dishes. Whilst they are often used together, we thought we'd break down the difference between the two. 

Aleppo, so called due to where it grows, is also a chilli. Aleppo Pepper or Halaby Peppers are found and grown in the Middle East. Although commonly used in the Middle East, its use outside of Armenian, Syrian and Turkish immigrant communities was rare up until the early 20th century. 

It’s graded at a 'moderate heat' around 10,000 on the Scoville Scale. It has a building heat, with a fruity 'raisin-like flavour'  and with 'fruity and bright qualities'. 

Sumac (Sumach), is a species of 35 plants, grown in subtropical climates across East Asia and Africa. It is used in Spice Rubs, Marinades, Dressings and Condiments in and all around the Middle East. 

Sumac is described as a 'tangy' spice with a sour and acidic flavour, reminiscent of lemon. It is also credited since it blends well with other spices, such as All spice, Chilli, thyme and cumin. Compared with salt, it enhances the natural flavours of food. 

Whilst I can't find a Scoville Unit for Sumac, it is definitely more mild than the Aleppo Chilli. Overall, the two spices are very different and compliment each other exceptionally well. 

Our recommendation to put our chillies to the test would be the Avocado and Feta Smash.