Koufeta amygdalou Geroskipou are roasted almonds covered with sugar and are produced in the Geroskipou municipality of Paphos district. This name is transitionally protected as a “Geographical Indication” in Cyprus and is candidate for registration as a “Protected Geographical Indication” in the European Union. This kind of confectionery product is also produced at Foini village and is known as Koufetes Foiniou.
History: The production of Koufeta amygdalou Geroskipou started in 1895 in the village of Geroskipou by Sofocles Athanasiou. The production know-how was passed down from generation to generation and remains unchanged. Koufeta Amygdalou Geroskipou, mainly sold in fairs (Aristidou & Vakis, 1992), have been awarded a prize at a special exhibition carried out in Stroumpi village in 1937. They have always been the traditional treat, offered during weddings/baptisms.
Production method: Deshelled almonds are roasted for about 30 minutes and placed in the “Koufetiera” (special rotating vessel). Syrup (sugar dissolved in water) is gradually poured in the rotating vessel, until the almonds are totally enveloped.
Gastronomy: Consumed as a sweet.
Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment