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
50
servings20
minutes20
minutes300
kcal24
Hours40
minutesTraditional 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
1.5 kg 1.5 Wild Figs
1 piece 1 Copper Sulfate (blue stone), chickpea size (used in traditional cleaning method)
- For the Syrup
2 kg 2 Sugar
1.7 kg 1.7 Water
2 tbsp 2 Glucose Syrup
Juice of 1/2 Lemon
2 2 Vanillin Capsules
- Additional Syrup (if needed)
1 kg 1 Sugar
800 g 800 Water
1 tbsp 1 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.
