We recommend tasting Kinkano (known as kumquat in Corfu) products first and then buying them if you like them. They are one of the traditional products of the island, which you definitely won’t find in other parts of Greece.

In the photos: Lazaris distillery and confectionery factory. https://lazarisartisan.com/

Please note: kinkan berries are gutted by hand. No machines! They are cut in half and the flesh is scooped out. So it is truly manual work . They said, no machines .

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These fruits came from China, where they have been cultivated since the 12th century. The name comes from the Cantonese Chinese “kam kwat”, which means golden orange, because the fruit really does resemble a small orange. In 1860, kinkanus were brought to Corfu by the British botanist Sidney Merlin, who grew them in the Dassia area (a little north of Corfu town). Since 1924, kinkanus fruits have been widely used. Now most of the fruit is grown in the Nimfes region (in the northern part of the island), because there is fertile soil, sufficient moisture and sunshine. There are about 6,000 trees on the entire island.  

Beautiful to look at, sweet and sour at the same time, kinkanus has aromatic and nutritional properties, is rich in vitamins C, A, B and 11 other vitamins, nourishes and moisturizes the epidermis. It contains folic acid, vitamin B2 and thiamine, is rich in flavonoids that act against hypertension, is an antioxidant. It is rich in limonene – an essential oil with anti-cancer properties.

Kumquats are  a filling food due to their high water and fiber content  , but they are relatively low in calories. This makes them a great snack to beat hunger, making them suitable for those on a diet.  

What nutrients does it contain and what are its health benefits? (Doctor’s insights)

100 g of fresh kinkan (4-5 pcs.) – 71 calories.

It is recommended to eat the Kinkala fruit with its skin, which is rich in antioxidants. It is a fruit rich in fiber, as well as vitamins A and C, and trace elements such as calcium, potassium, copper, and iron.

The role of vitamins. Vitamin C stimulates the immune system and is essential in fighting viruses and many diseases. In addition, it helps maintain healthy connective tissue, protects against heart disease, hypertension, absorbs free radicals and is an important vitamin for the prevention of degenerative diseases.

Vitamin A is essential for proper growth and reproduction of the body. It is essential for skin health and plays an important role in the development of epithelial tissue. It is important for visual function. Like all antioxidants, it is involved in reducing inflammation by fighting free radicals.

High in fiber. The high fiber content in kinkan helps control appetite and satiety. Fiber is also known for its ability to reduce or prevent high blood cholesterol levels. 

Kinkala is rich in antioxidants, mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids. Basically, the antioxidants in kinkan fight harmful free radicals in the body, which cause oxidation and oxidative stress, damage cells, have negative health effects and are associated with many diseases. Important role in limiting the spread of cancer, according to a 2012 study, kinkan oil could help limit the spread of cancer cells in the prostate.

Strengthens the immune system. A recent study showed that kinkan extract enhances the production of NK (natural killer) cells, thereby contributing to the strengthening of our immune system. A strong immune system protects us from frequent infections and even various forms of cancer. NK cells play a very important role in the body’s defenses, as they protect the body from virus-infected cells and the growth of cancer cells. Antimicrobial properties.

Kinkala has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for many years, mainly to treat respiratory tract inflammation.

A taste temptation. Kinkanas are a combination of sweet, bitter and sour flavors. It was in Greece that the confectionery term “dessert in a spoon” originated. In Corfu, such a dessert is widely used – kinkan sweets. They are served whole or crushed with ice cream or yogurt. They make delicious jam and can be used in cakes and cookies.