TATER TOTS WITH SUMAC

“SUMAC CUTS THE GREASE,” was Michele Grant’s rationale when I asked her why she sprinkles a comparatively exotic spice, associated with Persia, on mundane American Tater Tots. “Plus the lemony notes give the tots balance.” She also offers smoked paprika “because my family is from Eastern Europe.” At the time I visited The Grilled Cheese Truck, a lemon and garlic aioli was in development.

SERVES 4 TO 6

1 package frozen Tater Tots

Powdered sumac (see Note)

Prepare the Tater Tots according to the directions on the package. Sprinkle the Tater Tots with sumac to taste.

NOTE: Powdered sumac is a purple-colored, lemon-tinged spice used in the Middle East.