Traditional Wild Fig Spoon Sweet – Jar Sterilization & Vacuum Sealing Explained

This traditional Greek spoon sweet with wild figs (known as ornós in Greek) is a fragrant preserve served in small portions with coffee or as a topping for desserts. The figs are carefully prepared, simmered in a thick syrup of sugar, water, lemon, and vanilla, then stored in sterilized jars for long-lasting preservation.

In this recipe, you’ll not only learn how to make this authentic spoon sweet but also the essential steps of jar sterilization and vacuum sealing so your preserve stays safe, fresh, and delicious for months.

Traditional Wild Fig Spoon Sweet – Jar Sterilization & Vacuum Sealing Explained

Recipe by George Zolis

5.0 from 1 vote

Course: Dessert, Vegetarian

Servings

50

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

150

kcal

Resting Time

24

Hours

Total time

40

minutes

Traditional Greek wild fig spoon sweet simmered in syrup and preserved with proper jar sterilization and vacuum sealing. A classic recipe for long-term storage.

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Ingredients

Metric US

• 1.5 kg 3.3 lb Wild Figs

• 1 piece 1 Copper Sulfate (blue stone), chickpea size (used in traditional cleaning method)

• For the Syrup

• 2 kg 10 cup Sugar

• 1.7 kg 7 1/4 cup Water

• 2 tbsp 2 tbsp Glucose Syrup

• Juice of 1/2 Lemon

• 2 2 Vanillin Capsules

• Additional Syrup (if needed)

• 1 kg 5 cup Sugar

• 800 g 3 1/3 cup Water

• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp Glucose Syrup

• Juice of 1/2 Lemon

Recipe directions

• Prepare the Figs
• Trim off the top and bottom of the figs.
• Wash well and boil in water for 10 minutes.
• Rinse with cold water and place in a bowl of water with the copper sulfate for 30 minutes.
• Squeeze gently by hand to remove excess liquid.
• Rinse thoroughly at least 3 times.
• Make the Syrup
• In a large pot, combine sugar, water, glucose, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil.
• Add the figs and boil for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
• Leave the mixture for 24 hours.
• Next Day
• Re-boil the syrup until it thickens, adding vanilla and a little more lemon juice.
• If needed, prepare extra syrup using the additional sugar and water mixture.
• Sterilizing Jars
• Wash jars and lids thoroughly.
• Boil them in a large pot of water for 10 minutes.
• Place them on a clean towel to dry naturally — do not wipe.
• Creating a Vacuum Seal
• While the preserve is still hot, fill the sterilized jars immediately.
• Seal tightly with lids.
• Turn jars upside down and leave until fully cooled.
• This process creates a vacuum seal that ensures long-term preservation.

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The Tradition of Spoon Sweets in Greece

Spoon sweets are a symbol of Greek hospitality, offered to guests on a small plate with a spoon and a glass of cold water. This wild fig version is especially aromatic, with the figs retaining their shape and texture inside the syrup.

Why Sterilization Matters

Proper sterilization and vacuum sealing are essential in homemade preserves. They prevent bacteria, mold, and fermentation, ensuring your spoon sweet stays safe and flavorful for months. This simple extra step makes all the difference between a short-lived dessert and a long-lasting pantry treasure.

Serving Ideas

Wild fig spoon sweet is traditionally served on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with Greek yogurt, cheesecake, ice cream, or even as a topping for pancakes.

More Greek Recipes to Try

• Vegan Oil-Free Samali
• Cherry Cake with Fresh Cherries
• Syrupy Orange Pie with Phyllo Dough