Kumquats of Corfu – The Famous “Kinkanus”
A unique symbol of Corfu, kumquats—locally known as kinkanus—are a must-try delicacy you won’t easily find anywhere else in Greece.
We recommend tasting kumquat (kinkano) products before buying—once you do, it’s hard to resist taking some home. These small, vibrant fruits are one of Corfu’s most distinctive traditional products.
Pictured here is the Lazaris Distillery & Artisan Sweets, one of the island’s best-known producers: https://lazarisartisan.com/
A fascinating detail: kumquats are still prepared by hand. Each fruit is carefully cut open and cleaned individually—no machines involved.
It’s a labor of patience and tradition, proudly preserved to this day.
Kumquats originally come from China, where they have been cultivated since the 12th century. The name comes from the Cantonese “kam kwat,” meaning “golden orange”—a perfect description of their bright appearance.
They were introduced to Corfu in 1860 by the British botanist Sidney Merlin, who first cultivated them in the Dassia area, just north of Corfu Town. Since 1924, kumquats have been widely used across the island.
Today, most are grown in the Nymfes region, where fertile soil, sunshine, and moisture create ideal conditions. In total, there are around 6,000 trees on the island.
Kumquats are as appealing nutritionally as they are visually. They are rich in vitamins C, A, and B, along with important nutrients such as calcium, potassium, copper, and iron. They also contain flavonoids and essential oils like limonene, known for their antioxidant properties.
Despite their sweet and tangy flavor, kumquats are relatively low in calories—about 71 calories per 100 grams (roughly 4–5 fruits). Their high water and fiber content makes them a satisfying and healthy snack.
It’s recommended to eat kumquats with their peel, which is especially rich in antioxidants.
Their health benefits include:
- Supporting the immune system
- Helping digestion and promoting satiety
- Contributing to heart health and balanced blood pressure
- Supporting skin health and connective tissue
- Reducing oxidative stress through antioxidants
Studies have also explored their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as their potential role in supporting the body’s natural defenses.
Kumquats have a long history in traditional Chinese medicine, particularly for treating respiratory issues and inflammation.
But beyond their health benefits, kumquats are simply delicious. Their flavor is a unique blend of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter notes. In Greece, they are famously used in “spoon sweets”—a traditional preserve served by the spoon, often alongside water as a gesture of hospitality.
In Corfu, kumquat sweets are especially popular. They can be enjoyed whole or crushed over ice cream or yogurt, turned into fragrant jams, or used in cakes and cookies. Whether as a treat or a souvenir, they are a true taste of the island.