Yes, I am Greek!

[saved1986]

We use a seasoning/flavoring called Mastica, also known as gum mastic in our breads and cookies. It imparts a subtle flavor that is quite awesome. We also have a liquor made with it.

The plant grows on a greek island called Chios and the bushes are whipped and the sap that gums up is picked dried and we crush it up and add it. For whatever reason, the plants will only give the gum on a certain region of chios. Plants transplanted elsewhere do not.

There is a funny side effect of mastica. It cures ulcers.

[jfh]

And it will kill the bacteria Heliocobacter pylori (H. pylori).

Though, I don't know why you would put gum in cookies or bread. Wouldn't that make them real chewy?

[saved1986]

You put around 1/16th teaspoon of the powdered gum in for a loaf of bread.