Try the refreshing “white sweet” as the Greeks call it. In Greek, it is also known as “ypovrichio,” which means “submarine,” so many know it as the “sweet submarine.” It got its name due to the specific serving method, where a spoonful of sugar paste is submerged in a glass of cold water. The taste can be described as a kind of greek caramel.
You might remember we mentioned the island of Chios when we introduced Chios Gardens juices with 100% squeezed fruit and 100% refreshing lemonades. Legend has it that this aromatic sweet was inspired by a certain confectioner from the island of Chios while he was in Constantinople.
It was called “white sweet” and was initially made by women from Constantinople. It was a treat served in all Greek homes and is mostly associated with grandparents’ homes, welcoming guests, and sharing this dessert together. The old name was “sugarcane yeast” and it is mentioned in New Year’s songs.
In the past, every home had it in their cupboard, especially in the summer when other sweets couldn’t withstand the high temperatures and there were no refrigerators. The sweet submarine has a simple preparation based on sugar syrup, with added aroma and a bit of lemon. It can be found in many parts of Greece, especially in Chios, where mastic production is significant.
The special pleasure lies in the way it is consumed: a spoonful of the paste is dipped in a glass of cold water for a short time and then slowly dissolves in the mouth. To further enhance the experience, you can add a slice of lemon or fresh mint. It can also be a sugar substitute in tea or used as a topping in cakes and pastries.
If you haven’t tried the sweet submarine during a trip to Greece, you can now buy it in Super Vero markets. You can choose between two flavors – vanilla and mastic. It is sold in 500g packages. Super Vero brings the tastes of Greece to your home. Sweeten your day and indulge in this refreshing delicacy.
