Greek Christmas celebrations are synonymous with warmth, joy, and above all, delicious treats. Among the array of delightful festive desserts enjoyed during this time, one particular traditional delight stands out: Glyka Koutaliou, also known as Spoon Sweets. These sweet preserves are infused with the essence of seasonal fruits and aromatic spices, making them a cherished addition to any holiday spread.
Glyka Koutaliou Spoon Sweets:
Ingredients:
– 3 cups of seasonal fruit (such as cherries, figs, or quinces), washed and chopped
– 2 cups of granulated sugar
– 1 cup of water
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 3-4 whole cloves
– 1 lemon, sliced thinly
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped fruit, sugar, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and lemon slices. Stir gently to mix the ingredients.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the fruits simmer until they are tender and translucent, stirring occasionally. This process usually takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on the fruit used.
3. Once the fruits reach the desired consistency and the syrup has thickened slightly, remove the saucepan from the heat. Discard the cinnamon stick, cloves, and lemon slices.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract, infusing the preserves with a hint of warm aroma.
5. While the mixture is still warm, carefully transfer the Spoon Sweets into clean, sterilized jars, ensuring the fruit is distributed evenly. Seal the jars tightly with lids.
6. Allow the preserves to cool completely before storing them in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making them even more delicious with each passing day.
Whether served on a festive platter with nuts and cheeses, drizzled over Greek yogurt, or simply enjoyed on a spoon as a sweet indulgence, Glyka Koutaliou Spoon Sweets bring a touch of Greek tradition and flavor to your Christmas celebrations. Gift a jar to a loved one or keep them on hand for those cozy moments when only a sweet treat will suffice. Embrace the joy of the season with these delightful preserves that capture the essence of Greek hospitality and culinary heritage.
