Lošinj krokant Crocantessa

Lošinj Almond Brittle, known as 'Lošinjski krokant,' is a traditional delicacy of the Lošinj captains, prepared for special occasions such as weddings, baptisms, and significant anniversaries. Made from the once precious ingredients of sugar and almonds, it has always symbolized wealth and prosperity. Since the golden age of Lošinj sailboats, the brittle cake has been an integral part of festivities on the island and is prepared in tiers for the most significant events, sometimes reaching up to seven layers. At the peak of the celebration, the Lošinj Almond Brittle is ceremoniously broken for good luck, traditionally using a sabre.
Lošinj Almond Brittle, known as Crocantessa, is entirely handmade using a traditional family recipe. The square slab of Lošinj Almond Brittle is protected from moisture by cellophane and placed in a reinforced box to prevent breakage until a special moment. Tradition dictates that during the celebration Lošinj Almond Brittle should be broken for good luck.
Krokant is a simple dessert made from caramelized sugar and nuts, most commonly almonds, either raw or blanched. The tradition of making krokant spread across the Mediterranean during the peak of transoceanic trade with South America, and it arrived on the island of Lošinj in the 18th century aboard trading ships. In a time when sugar derived from sugarcane was a precious commodity, this confection of sugar and almonds was prepared in affluent Lošinj families. They interpreted the treat in an original way, developing an authentic method of production that required a particular skill set and strength.                                                                                                                                                                   
 The tradition and art of making krokant were preserved by the women of Lošinj's sailors, to whom the sculpture 'Addio' in Čikat is dedicated, symbolically depicted also on our Lošinj Almond Brittle.

Price: 10 – 11 Euro

For over 40 years, the MOBY DICK confectionery has been a popular meeting place on the main square of Lošinj, and Petar Goleš is a skilled pastry chef known for creating unique desserts. The Goleš family is an active participant in the island's traditional events, with Petar and Katya dancing in the Manfrina folk group, singing in the Italian Community choir, and engaging in various ways to preserve the cultural heritage of the island of Lošinj.

In their effort to preserve a part of the gastronomic heritage through pastry-making, in 2016, they revived the art of creating the ceremonial Lošinj Almond Brittle and began making it for weddings and other celebrations. In 2023, they introduced the Lošinj Almond Brittle under the brand name 'Crocantessa,' packaged for convenience and intended as a special gift or souvenir from the island of Lošinj.


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