It doesn’t get more authentic than this! If you grew up in Greece, Mastiha, the tear-shaped resin drops of the Mastic Tree, will remind you of home. Mastiha has been a classic culinary ingredient since ancient Greece used to flavor baked goods, ice cream and the traditional Greek liqueur with the same name. The Greek island of Chios has been dedicated to the cultivation and production of Mastiha (mastic gum) since the Byzantine era, with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) accorded by the European Union. Saradis has been making “spoon sweets” in Chios since 1928. Traditionally offered as a gesture of warmth and hospitality, the custom in virtually every Greek household is to serve a generous teaspoon of “spoon sweets,” with a glass of water or coffee, to visiting guests. Saradis Mastiha Sweets are made with sugar, mastic oil and water. With a thick and creamy fondant-like texture, our Mastiha Sweets have a unique anise flavor, with hints of vanilla and pine. Also known as a “submarine,” these sweets best enjoyed in the classic way: licked on a teaspoon, like a lollipop, between sips of water. Leave the spoon in your glass between sips, and the water will retain its wonderful mastic gum flavor!