Greek almond exports have picked up as almond-farming becomes an attractive alternative to more traditional crops. The global export giants are the United States and Turkey, while in Europe, Spain takes the lead.

Greek farmers cultivate two varieties; the Ferragnes and the more commonly farmed Texas variety. Both are suitable for raw or roasted consumption or for confectionery and the cosmetic industry. Almonds in Greece are mostly farmed in the region of Thessaly.

The word almond comes from Latin and originally from the Greek amygdale, meaning tonsil plum. Ancient Romans referred to almonds as Greek nuts, because they thought they were first cultivated in Greece, however, the earliest varieties were found in China and were brought to the Middle East and Europe through the ancient Silk Road.

From a cultural point of view, almonds have a long tradition. Almonds, much as honey, are a symbol of wealth and long life. Tradition has it that at the end of a Greek wedding ceremony or christening, each guest receives sugar-coated almonds as a symbol of purity and prosperity.

Kerasma: Greek recipes with nuts & Traditional almond biscuits [video]