Pekmez — Bulgarian Grape Molasses
Pekmez is a traditional Bulgarian thick syrup made by slowly simmering fresh grape juice until it reduces into a rich, dark, glossy molasses — with no added sugar, no preservatives, just pure fruit goodness. Deeply sweet with warm caramel notes and a smooth, thick consistency like honey. Used for centuries as a natural sweetener, quick energy booster, and traditional folk remedy. Since it is made entirely from grapes, it is naturally plant-based — the perfect vegan alternative to honey!
Shared by harzel
Time
180 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
easy
🛒 Ingredients
- #Main Ingredient;
- 2–3 kg ripe grapes — fresh, sweet, dark or mixed varieties
- No added sugar, water, or preservatives — pure grape juice only!
👩🍳 Instructions
- 1
Extract the juice: Wash grapes thoroughly and remove stems. Crush completely. Strain through a clean cloth or fine sieve to separate clear juice from skins and seeds. Keep only the clear liquid.
- 2
Slow simmer: Pour grape juice into a wide pot. Bring to a gentle boil over low heat. Simmer slowly for 3–4 hours, stirring occasionally, skimming off any foam that rises. Do not burn.
- 3
Check thickness: Continue cooking until reduced by roughly two-thirds and the liquid thickens like honey — remember it thickens much more as it cools, so do not over-reduce while hot!
- 4
Store: Remove from heat, let cool slightly. Pour while still warm into clean glass jars and seal tightly. Store in a cool, dark place — keeps well for months without refrigeration.
- 5
Enjoy: Spread on bread, stir into warm water or tea, mix with tahini, or use anywhere you would normally use honey or sugar.