Jordan Almonds: An Explanation

Jordan Almonds

Jordan almonds, also known as sugared almonds, confetti, dragées, or koufetta, are a type of sweet treat confectionery consisting of almonds covered with a candy coating.

Sometimes, the almonds are colour coded for specific events: green for engagements, white for weddings, silver for anniversaries, red for graduations, and blue or pink for baby showers, christenings or baptisms. They are generally either placed in bowls, or packed in organza bags, tulle, or small boxes.

The countries with the most renowned traditions of using Jordan almonds are Greece, Italy and the Middle East, though the treats are becoming rapidly popular in other countries including Canada and the USA.

Italian Weddings:

In Italy, five almonds (confetti) are always given to the bride and groom. Each almond represents a wish for the lucky couple: health, happiness, fertility, financial stability and a long life. It is customary that the little sugar-coated candies present at every important occasion in Italian life.

Greek Weddings:

In Greece, the almonds (koufetta or dragées) are always given out in odd numbers to convey that they will share everything and remain undivided. Traditionally, an unmarried woman will place an almond under her pillow and expect to dream of her future husband.

Middle Eastern Weddings:

In the Middle East, the almonds are considered aphrodisiacs, and are available for both guests and newlyweds at wedding receptions. All of the traditions agree that the almonds themselves are bitter, but the coating is sweet, which is a hope that the life of the newlyweds will too be more sweet than bitter.

It is also customary to attach a little card or note with the almonds to explain the meaning to your guests.

Sample poem:

Jordan Almonds For Thee

Five sugared almonds for each guest to eat

To remind us that life is both bitter and sweet.

Five wishes for the new husband and wife,

Health, wealth, happiness, children and a long life!

The true start of Jordan Almonds was in the 15^th Century, when the sugarcane was introduced to Europe. During important marriages, such as the wedding of Lucrezia Borgia to the Duke of Ferrara, enough of the candied almonds were laid out at the banquet for all the guests to eat approximately 260 pounds.