Pomegranate Spoon Sweet: Traditional Peloponnesian Recipe

Pomegranate spoon sweet is one of the most elegant and symbolic traditional Greek preserves. Deeply rooted in the Peloponnese, it represents abundance, prosperity, and hospitality.

At CookTheGreekWay, we cherish authentic recipes passed down from generation to generation—and this one is exactly that: simple, pure, and full of Greek aroma.

With just a few ingredients and gentle cooking, the ruby-red “pearls” of the pomegranate transform into a glossy spoon sweet that pairs beautifully with Greek coffee, yogurt, or festive treats.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups pomegranate seeds (only the “pearls,” cleaned)
  • 3 cups sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • (Optional) 1–2 small pieces of rose geranium or a little vanilla

Instructions

Cleaning the Pomegranate

Carefully remove the pomegranate seeds, making sure there are no white membrane pieces left, as they cause bitterness.

Preparing the Syrup

In a saucepan, add the water and sugar. Simmer over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and a light syrup forms.

Adding the Pomegranate Seeds

Add the pomegranate seeds and gently simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring lightly with a wooden spoon.

Setting & Flavoring

Once the syrup becomes glossy and takes on a deep red color, add the lemon juice and, if desired, the rose geranium or vanilla.

Storing

Remove the aromatic leaves. Spoon the hot sweet into sterilized jars, seal tightly, and let cool completely.

Extra Tips for Perfect Pomegranate Spoon Sweet

Clean the pomegranate in a bowl of water to prevent the seeds from bursting.

Do not overcook—the syrup will thicken more as it cools.

For extra aroma, add a small strip of lemon peel (without the white pith).

Store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

Nutritional Value
(per tablespoon approx.)

Calories: ~60 kcal
Carbohydrates: 15 gFat: 0 g
Protein: 0.2 g
Pomegranate is rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and vitamin C.

Although this spoon sweet contains sugar, it still retains part of the fruit’s valuable nutrients.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How do I know when the spoon sweet is ready?

Place a drop of syrup on a plate—if it holds its shape and doesn’t spread, it’s ready.

  1. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can slightly, but it may affect the syrup consistency and shelf life.

  1. Why did my spoon sweet turn bitter?

Usually due to leftover white pith from the pomegranate or overcooking.

  1. How is it traditionally served?

With Greek yogurt, vanilla ice cream, soft cheeses, or simply with Greek coffee.

  1. Can I skip the aromatic ingredients?

Absolutely! The natural flavor of pomegranate is beautiful on its own.

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I’m Elena!

Cooking has always been more than a hobby for me — it’s been a way of life.

I first found myself in the kitchen as a young girl, helping my family whenever I had a free moment outside of school. That’s where my journey with food began: kneeling on a chair to stir a pot, learning by watching, tasting, and slowly falling in love with the aromas and rhythms of the Greek kitchen.

Decades later — with over half a century of life behind me — that passion hasn’t faded. If anything, it’s grown richer, deeper, and more joyful.

Here on CookTheGreekWay, I share the recipes that shaped my childhood, nourished my loved ones, and taught me that food is the most generous way to tell a story. Each dish reflects a place, a season, a memory — and together, they form a delicious map of Greece.

So come along — cook with me, taste with me, and let’s explore every corner of my country through its beautiful, honest food.

Καλή όρεξη!

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