Traditional mastic liqueur from Mytilini "Mastic Tears" 200ml from www.yolenis.com
Introduction
Are you a fan of Greek culture and cuisine? If so, you may have heard of Mastica liqueur, a traditional Greek spirit with a unique flavor and history. Mastica liqueur is made from the resin of the Mastica tree, which only grows on the Greek island of Chios. This rare ingredient is what gives Mastica liqueur its distinct taste and aroma. If you're looking to enjoy the taste of Greece at home, why not try making your own Mastica liqueur? In this article, we'll guide you through the process of making Mastica liqueur step by step. We'll cover everything from the ingredients you'll need to the nutritional information of the final product.
Ingredients
To make Mastica liqueur, you'll need the following ingredients: - 1 liter of high-proof alcohol (such as vodka or Everclear) - 2 tablespoons of Mastica resin - 2 cups of sugar - 2 cups of water You can find Mastica resin online or at specialty food stores that carry Greek products. Make sure you're buying food-grade Mastica resin, as some types may not be safe for consumption.
Instructions
Making Mastica liqueur is a simple process that requires some patience and attention to detail. Here's how to do it: 1. Start by crushing the Mastica resin into small pieces using a mortar and pestle. This will help the resin dissolve more easily in the alcohol. 2. In a large glass jar or bottle, pour the alcohol over the crushed Mastica resin. Make sure the jar or bottle is tightly sealed. 3. Store the jar or bottle in a cool, dark place for at least one week. During this time, shake the jar or bottle every day to help the Mastica resin dissolve into the alcohol. 4. After one week has passed, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter to remove any bits of Mastica resin. 5. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. 6. Let the sugar syrup cool to room temperature. 7. Once the sugar syrup has cooled, add it to the Mastica-infused alcohol. Stir until the two liquids are fully combined. 8. Store the Mastica liqueur in a clean glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the bottle in a cool, dark place until you're ready to enjoy it.
Notes and Tips
- Mastica liqueur is traditionally served chilled as an after-dinner drink. You can also use it in cocktails or as a flavoring in desserts. - If you can't find Mastica resin, you can try using Mastica liqueur concentrate instead. This is a more concentrated version of Mastica liqueur that you can dilute with alcohol and sugar syrup. - When storing your Mastica liqueur, make sure to keep it away from direct sunlight and heat. This can cause the flavor to degrade over time.
Nutrition
Mastica liqueur is a sweet, high-alcohol drink that should be enjoyed in moderation. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving (1.5 ounces) of Mastica liqueur: - Calories: 130 - Carbohydrates: 20g - Fat: 0g - Protein: 0g - Sugar: 20g Keep in mind that the nutritional information may vary depending on the type of alcohol and sugar you use in your recipe.
Conclusion
Making Mastica liqueur at home is a fun and rewarding project for anyone who loves Greek culture and cuisine. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious and unique spirit that's sure to impress your friends and family. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds (and your inner Greek) will thank you.
