A TRADITIONAL CYPRIOT SWEET
Cyprus Glyko, is an age-old traditional sweet preserve. The refreshing dessert is made from various fruits, nuts or even vegetables that are cooked and then preserved in syrup. The word ‘Glyko’ translates to ‘sweet’ and this describes the delicacy perfectly. Most Cypriot households offer this dessert to guests or visitors and it is available in many traditional coffee shops and restaurants all over the island. The dessert of choice, for many Cypriots, is available all year around. Some use it as a sweet topping for creamy Greek yoghurt or ice cream but most just enjoy it on its own with a Cyprus coffee or ice-cold water.
MAKING GLYKO
Cyprus Glyko can be made from most fruits, nuts or vegetables. When making it, the method of preparation is crucial, although the process of actually making it is relatively easy. Essentially its preparation is similar to that of marmalade or sweet preserve, except that the main ingredient remains whole. Pickling lime, dissolved in water, is used to make the main ingredient crunchier. The fruit, nuts or vegetables of choice are soaked in this solution and then left to rest for at least two hours. These ingredients are then thoroughly washed and then added to a sugar and water syrup solution. The whole mixture is then left to simmer for several hours until a preserve is created. The addition of lemon juice ensures that the main ingredient maintains its original colour. This also stops the sugar from crystallising. Additional spices such as cinnamon or cloves are often added to some of these preserves for extra flavour.
FRUIT, NUT OR VEGETABLE
Today, there are many varieties of Glyko. Some of the most popular versions include the rind of some fruits and vegetables or nuts that include the shell. The idea behind this was to use every part of the main ingredient, leaving nothing to waste. Popular versions of Glyko are bitter orange, fig, lemon, watermelon, walnut and cherry. Each one of these has its own characteristics and unique taste.
A HOMEMADE FAVOURITE
Traditionally kept in jars much like jam, homemade Glyko uses recipes passed down through generations. This often makes this Cypriot delicacy unique and quite special. Cypriot culture dictates that homemade jars of Glyko make for popular gifts for friends and family to enjoy. Homemade jars of Glyko are also symbolic of Cypriot generosity and hospitality. Cyprus Glyko is also often served during special occasions and celebrations, and it is not uncommon for this delicacy to be served at weddings, baptisms, and religious holidays.
