Cooking with Chios resin mastic
Chios resin mastic has a long history of use in the Mediterranean cuisine. It has been used for flavoring desserts, beverages, and savory dishes. It is commonly used in Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. In Greece, it is mostly used in sweet dishes, where it adds a piney and slightly bitter flavor. Here are some popular dishes that use Chios resin mastic:
1. Baklava: Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts and honey. Chios resin mastic is added to the honey syrup to give it a unique flavor.
2. Loukoumades: Loukoumades are small doughnuts that are dipped in honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon. Chios resin mastic is added to the honey syrup to add a distinct flavor.
3. Greek coffee: Greek coffee is a strong and flavorful coffee that is brewed in a small pot called Briki. Chios resin mastic is added to the coffee grounds before brewing, which gives the coffee a unique aroma and flavor.
Apart from sweet dishes, Chios resin mastic is also used in savory dishes. In Turkey and the Middle East, it is added to meat dishes, soups, and stews. It is also used as a mint flavoring substitute in some recipes.
Health benefits of Chios resin mastic
Apart from its culinary uses, Chios resin mastic also has several medicinal properties. It has been used for treating various ailments since ancient times. Here are some of the health benefits of Chios resin mastic:
1. Anti-inflammatory: Chios resin mastic contains several active compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to reduce inflammation in the body, which can improve various conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and allergies.
2. Digestive health: Chios resin mastic has been traditionally used to improve digestive health. It can help to alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, indigestion, and stomach pain.
3. Oral health: Chios resin mastic has antimicrobial properties, which can help to improve oral health. It can help to reduce the risk of dental caries and gum disease.
4. Skin health: Chios resin mastic has been used in skincare products due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It can help to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of acne.
Conclusion
Overall, Chios resin mastic is a versatile ingredient that has culinary and medicinal uses. It adds a unique flavor and fragrance to any dish and has several health benefits. If you haven’t tried cooking with Chios resin mastic yet, it’s worth giving it a try!