Sumac Lemonade

1. Make Sumac Syrup

Combine one cup of granulated sugar and one cup of water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring gently until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture becomes a mildly thick syrup.

2. Infuse Sumac

Once the syrup is ready, add in two tablespoons of ground sumac. Let this steep for a full hour, allowing the sumac to infuse the syrup with its tangy and slightly citrusy flavor.

3. Strain and Cool Syrup

After the steeping process, strain the sumac from the syrup, ensuring that no granules remain, and allow the syrup to cool completely.

4. Combine Syrup and Lemon Juice

Combine the cooled sumac syrup with two-thirds of a cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice to form the heart of the lemonade.

5. Dilute and Serve

When ready to serve, dilute the sumac-lemon mixture with an equal part of cold still or sparkling water, and add fresh orange slices for a touch of color and extra zest.