Mastic is a pale, translucent resin that drips from cuts in the bark of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus var. chia). It hardens into small, brittle “tears” with a fresh, piney, slightly sweet and resinous flavor.
History
Mastic has been collected on the Greek island of Chios for thousands of years and was used as one of the earliest chewing gums; the English word “masticate” is related to it. The resin was traded around the Mediterranean and prized in the Ottoman empire, and the villages of southern Chios, known as the mastic villages, still harvest it by hand.
Where it comes from
The mastic tree grows around the Mediterranean, but only the trees on southern Chios, Greece, produce the resin in quantity. It is protected as a regional product.
Flavor and how to use it
Grind mastic with a little sugar or freeze it first, because it sticks. Use it in Greek ice cream, puddings, spoon sweets, festive breads (such as tsoureki), liqueur and Turkish and Arab desserts. A very small amount is enough.
Good to know
Mastic is a tree resin and is related to the pistachio, so people with tree nut allergies should check with a doctor before trying it.
Buying and storing
Keep the tears in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. They keep for a long time.
In kitchens and traditions
Mastic is a resin from the Pistacia lentiscus tree, grown mainly on the Greek island of Chios, where the harvest is a protected tradition. Villages known as the Mastichochoria have cultivated it for centuries, and Chios mastic has a protected status. In 2014, UNESCO recognized the “Know-how of cultivating mastic on the island of Chios”.
Mastic is used in Greek and Turkish sweets, ice cream, liqueurs such as mastika, breads and chewing gum. It has a pine-like, resinous fragrance.
Good pairings and ideas
- Grind with sugar or a pinch of salt before using.
- Add to milk puddings, ice cream or breads.
- Use in Middle Eastern desserts.
- Infuse in spirits or syrups.
Frequently asked questions
How should I use mastic?
Grind a few tears with a little sugar to prevent clumping.
Is it like chewing gum?
Yes. Mastic was one of the earliest chewing gums.
Where can I buy it?
Greek and Middle Eastern grocers sell it.
This page is general information, not medical advice. If you have allergies, a medical condition or are pregnant, check with a qualified professional before using any food in larger amounts than usual.