What Is Mastic Gum?
Mastic gum is a natural resin that drips from cuts made in the trunk of the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus) and dries and hardens in the air. It is collected in small, translucent, pale yellow granules; the best-known variety is produced on the Aegean island of Chios.
It has a distinctive, fresh, pine-and-anise-like flavor and aroma. It is called “gum” because it softens and becomes chewy when chewed; in cooking, it is ground in small amounts to add flavor.
Nutritional Values of Mastic Gum
Since mastic gum is a resin and seasoning used in very small amounts, its contribution to a meal’s nutritional values is negligible; for this reason, no detailed nutrition table is provided. Its value comes from its distinctive aroma, not its calories.
How Should Mastic Gum Be Used?
Mastic gum has a very intense aroma, so only a small amount is used to add flavor; too much can give food a bitter, sharp note. It is used as a flavor and aroma ingredient in a balanced diet.
This information is general; mastic gum is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Mastic Gum
Good mastic gum has pale yellow, translucent, clean granules with its characteristic fresh aroma. Avoid granules that are darkened, dusty, or have an off aroma.
- The granules should be pale yellow and translucent
- They should have their characteristic fresh aroma
- Avoid darkened or dirty granules
How to Store Mastic Gum
Store mastic gum in a sealed container in a cool, dry place. Since it can soften and stick together in heat, keep it away from heat; if grinding it, chilling it briefly in the freezer first makes it easier.
Using Mastic Gum in the Kitchen
Mastic gum is used most often in mastic ice cream (Maraş ice cream), puddings, sütlaç (rice pudding), tavuk göğsü (chicken breast pudding), and Turkish delight; it is also used in some baked goods and drinks. It is usually ground in a mortar with a little sugar and added to the dish.
How to Grind Mastic Gum
Pound the small granules in a mortar with a little powdered sugar; the sugar prevents the resin from sticking to the mortar and helps it become a fine powder. Add the resulting powder to the dessert a little at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mastic gum the same as chewing gum?
Mastic gum is a natural tree resin; it is called “gum” because it softens when chewed. Modern chewing gum is usually made from a synthetic base, although traditional chewing gum traces its origins to mastic gum.
Why is mastic gum used sparingly?
Its aroma is so intense that even a small amount gives a distinct fragrance and flavor; too much can overpower the dessert and make it bitter.
What does mastic gum taste like?
It has a distinctive, fresh flavor reminiscent of pine and anise; this flavor gives ice cream and puddings their characteristic aroma.