By eatmundo · July 8, 2026
🇬🇷AI-generated imageSykomaida is a unique, traditional Corfiot delicacy: a dense, pressed cake made from dried figs, often infused with ouzo, black pepper, and sometimes nuts and orange zest. It’s a sweet, spicy, and chewy treat, perfect with coffee or as a digestif.
Ingredients
tick what you already have - the rest goes on your shopping listHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare the figs: Soak 500g (about 1 lb) dried figs in warm water for 15-20 minutes to soften them. Drain thoroughly and pat dry. Remove any hard stems. If the figs are very large, you can chop them roughly.
- 2
Chop nuts and zest: Finely chop 100g (1 cup) almonds or walnuts. If using, zest 1 orange. You can also lightly crush 5g (1 tsp) fennel seeds in a mortar and pestle for extra aroma.
- 3
Process the figs: Place the softened, drained figs in a food processor. Add 60 ml (¼ cup) ouzo or tsipouro, 5g (1 tsp) freshly ground black pepper, the chopped nuts, and optional orange zest and fennel seeds. Process until a thick, sticky paste forms. It should be cohesive but still have some texture from the nuts and figs.
- 4
Form the cake: Lightly oil your hands. Transfer the fig mixture to a clean surface or a shallow dish. Press and knead the mixture firmly to create a dense, compact cake. You can shape it into a round, flat disc or a rectangular block, about 2-3 cm (1 inch) thick.
- 5
Wrap and press: Wrap the Sykomaida tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets. For best results, place it under a heavy weight (like a cutting board with cans) for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. This compression helps it become even denser and firmer.
- 6
Store: Once pressed, unwrap the Sykomaida and you can traditionally wrap it in fig leaves (if available) for extra flavor and preservation, then re-wrap in parchment paper or plastic wrap. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator.
- 7
Serve: Slice the Sykomaida into thin wedges or squares. It's often enjoyed as a digestif with a glass of ouzo, tsipouro, or coffee. The flavors will deepen and meld over a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sykomaida?
Sykomaida is a traditional Greek fig cake originating from Corfu. It is a dense, pressed confection made primarily of mashed dried figs, finely chopped almonds, ouzo, fennel seeds, and black pepper, and it is typically served as an accompaniment to spirits or dessert wine.
Can I use different nuts in Sykomaida?
Absolutely! While almonds are common, walnuts also provide a delicious flavor and texture. Feel free to experiment with other nuts like pistachios if you prefer.
Is the alcohol in Sykomaida essential, and can I substitute it?
The ouzo or tsipouro adds a distinctive aromatic complexity. You can substitute it with orange juice or a bit more water if you prefer to avoid alcohol, but the flavor profile will differ.
How should Sykomaida be stored for best quality?
Store it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then parchment paper in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It keeps well for several weeks, and flavors often improve with age.
Why is black pepper used in this sweet dish?
Black pepper is a traditional ingredient in Sykomaida, providing a unique warmth and subtle spiciness that beautifully balances the sweetness of the figs and the anise notes of the ouzo, creating a complex flavor profile.
🇬🇷AI-generated imageMundo algorithm is scanning the globe for a +50% match...