Jordan almond

Jordan Almond

A Jordan almond is a type of confectionery that is often used in various celebrations across different cultures. The confectionery consists of an almond that is sugar-coated in various colors. The name "Jordan almond" is derived from the French word "jardin", meaning "garden", hence, "garden almond".

History

The origin of the Jordan almond is not clear, but it is believed to have originated in Ancient Rome, where honey-covered almonds were used in celebrations. The modern version of the Jordan almond, coated in sugar, is thought to have been developed in the 15th century in France.

Cultural Significance

Jordan almonds have a significant cultural role in many societies. In Italian weddings, they are given to guests in a pouch as a token of gratitude. The almonds are often in groups of five to symbolize health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and long life.

In Greek culture, Jordan almonds are known as koufeta and are used in wedding ceremonies. They are placed in small bags in odd numbers because it is believed that an odd number is indivisible, symbolizing the couple's unity.

In Middle Eastern cultures, Jordan almonds are often served at births and weddings. They are also used in some Christmas traditions in the United Kingdom.

Production

The production of Jordan almonds involves several steps. The almonds are first soaked in water to soften the shell, then they are placed in a rotating drum where they are coated with sugar syrup. This process is repeated several times until the desired thickness of the sugar coating is achieved. The almonds are then dried and polished to give them a shiny appearance.

Varieties

There are several varieties of Jordan almonds, including white, pastel, and pearlized. White Jordan almonds are traditional for weddings, while pastel Jordan almonds are often used for baby showers and Easter celebrations. Pearlized Jordan almonds have a shiny, pearl-like finish and are popular for upscale events and parties.