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Al-Yemeni Cafe Abdelmaboud logo, heritage coffee brand established in 1940
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Mastic — “The Tears of Chios”

Mastic is one of the most unique natural substances in the world. This aromatic resin, obtained from the mastic tree (Pistacia lentiscus), occurs naturally only in the southern part of the Greek island of Chios. We are proud to present this legendary product, which for thousands of years has connected medicine, cosmetics and the most refined gastronomy of the Middle East and the Mediterranean region.
 

Origin and Production: A Gift of Nature, Refined by Human Craft

 

Mastic is a product with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. Its harvesting is a meticulous process that has remained unchanged for centuries:

Manual Harvesting: The resin flows from cuts made in the bark of the tree, forming translucent drops that harden and create the so-called “tears”.

Natural Drying: The drops harden in the sun, turning into brittle, ivory-coloured crystals.

Uniqueness: Attempts to transplant mastic trees to other regions of the world have always failed — only the specific soil and climate of Chios make the production of true Chios mastic possible.

 

Sensory Profile: Freshness and Depth

 

Aroma: Intensely pine-like, with clear notes of cedar, resin and incense, softened by a subtle citrus freshness.

Flavour: Initially slightly bitter, then releasing a herbal, woody-sweet bouquet.

Texture: In solid form, it is hard and glassy, but under the warmth of the mouth it becomes elastic, making it the first natural chewing gum in history.

 

Use: The Culinary Signature of the Orient

 

Mastic holds a special place as an essential ingredient in authentic flavour experiences:

Coffee and Desserts: In Arab countries and Greece, mastic is a key addition to Arabic coffee, giving it a velvety texture and a forest-like aroma. It is the base of desserts such as Muhallebi, a milk pudding, and Dondurma, the famous elastic ice cream.

Baking: It is added to traditional breads, such as Tsoureki, and to cakes, where it acts as a natural aroma stabiliser.

Natural Chewing Gum: Chewing pure mastic crystals is one of the oldest ways to refresh the breath and support oral hygiene.

 

Health-Supporting Properties: Nature’s Pharmacy

 

Mastic has been valued for centuries for its documented therapeutic properties:

Digestive System: Clinical studies confirm its effectiveness in fighting Helicobacter pylori bacteria and easing symptoms of peptic ulcers and reflux.

Oral Hygiene: It has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, helping prevent plaque build-up and gum inflammation.

Anti-Inflammatory Effect: Its high terpene content supports the body’s natural regeneration processes.

 
 
Culinary Tip: To use mastic in cooking, it is best to freeze the crystals for 15 minutes and then grind them in a mortar with a small amount of sugar or salt. This prevents the resin from sticking and allows it to distribute evenly throughout the dish.

Mastic - (Pistacia lentiscus)

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Official distributor in Poland and other EU countries