Combine the water, sugar, orange rind, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and vanilla bean (leaving out the prunes and port only) in a saucepan and bring to the boil. Reduce to a simmer and leave to cook for 10 minutes without a lid.
Add the prunes and cook on a simmer for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Sterilise your jars by placing them in a 130°c / 265°f oven for 15 minutes. You can also boil them if that works for you.
Once the prunes have cooked, remove the whole spices and rind and pour in the port. This doesn’t need to be cook unless you want to burn of the alcohol.
Place your jars in the sink (incase they shatter) Carefully remove the prunes and place into the jars, leaving enough room at the top to hold the liquid – you want lots of the liquid!
Top with some of the orange rind and then seal.
Recipe by Finding Feasts at https://www.findingfeasts.com.au/recipe-index/prunes-in-port-and-spice-syrup/