My summer fav: Mastika
- Koukla House
- Oct 2, 2017
- 1 min read
Chios mastic is a known spice in the Eastern Mediterranean. It is commonly used for baking and cooking: in Greece, mastic is also used in mastic liqueurs and thanks to Averto, a new bar in Magazia, 5 minute drive from Koukla House, I discovered that it can be used to prepare excellent drinks, like their special Mastika Mojito.
In Greece, mastika is a strong spirit similar to ouzo or tsikoudia. It is served cold or at room temperature but usually with ice. Both turn white (louche) when poured over ice or mixed with water, forming small crystals when frozen.
They are served with various mezedes — appetizers such as octopus, salad, sardines, calamari, fried zucchini, and clams.Mastika often accompanies desserts made with almonds and is served at wedding feasts as a digestif. It has a sweet smell and flavor similar to liquorice.
From now on, I'll definitevely get a bottle of Mastika as soon as I arrive to Koukla House!
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