:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/petimezi_170w_160h-56a45a823df78cf77281f53a.jpg)
The Spruce / Jim Stanfield
In Greek: πετιμÎζι, pronounced peh-tee-MEH-zee
This is a specialty on the Greek island of Crete and one of the oldest (most ancient) recipes I know. Try this naturally sweet (no sugar added) syrup on yogurt, ice cream, in tea, on pancakes, in baking, and as a topping for snow! A teaspoon also works wonders for sore throats and colds. On Crete, it's made in large quantities in September when grapes are harvested and used throughout the year.
Ingredients
- 65 pounds white grapes (pale green on stems, or 3 gallons of green grape must)Â
- 3/4 cup wood ash
- For Storing: Rose-scented pelargonium leaves (scented geranium or bay leaves)
Steps to Make It
If Starting From Scratch
-
Gather the ingredients.
-
Working in manageable batches, in a large tub, squeeze the grapes by hand (or use a grape press) to get as much juice as possible.
-
Pour the grapes and juice through a strainer, collecting the juice in a large bowl or pot. Discard the skins, seeds, and any pulp.
-
Add 4 tablespoons of wood ash to a gallon of juice, stir, and let sit for 10 minutes. It will make a froth.
-
Strain the juice through the tulle into a bowl, and discard any collected seeds and ash.
-
Prepare the petimezi in batches of 1 or 2 quarts each. Bring the juice to a boil, lower the heat to the lowest setting, and cook uncovered for 1 hour.
-
Skim off any froth that rises. The resulting syrup should be the consistency of thin maple syrup. It will be a dark reddish-brown color.
If Starting With Grape Must
-
Gather the ingredients.
-
Boil the must for at least 1 hour, until it thickens enough to coat a spoon (slow drip).
-
Store in clean jars with a leaf of rose-scented pelargonium or a bay leaf (for a less sweet taste), away from light.
-
Seal jars after the syrup has cooled completely. Do not refrigerate.
Tips
- About 65 pounds of grapes will yield about 3 gallons of juice.
- You'll need a piece of tulle for this recipe.
- Over time, the syrup may thicken. To thin, place the jar in a pot with 1 to 2 inches of water and warm gently (do not boil).