History of Genoese Lent – from 1500 to the present day
The history of Genovese Lent, small delicacies that-as the name suggests-can (and should!) be enjoyed rigorously during the period leading up to Easter, is one of ancient tradition.
Lenten lentens have been recorded since the 1500s. Typical of the Ligurian (mostly) and Tuscan regions, they are said to be the work of the industrious hands of the Augustinian Sisters of the Genoese convent of St. Thomas. In fact, the simple ingredients from which they are made, almonds above all, not including animal fats, allowed the Sisters and the faithful to be able to enjoy these exquisite sweets even during the period of abstinence from delicious dishes containing precisely animal fats. Without sacrificing the pleasure of the palate, Lenten people, in short, respected the precepts of Lent-a perfect mix, especially for the tables of the noble Genoese families, on whose tables the delicious almonds were never lacking.
How we produce our Lenten
With a few simple ingredients-almonds, sugar, water, icing, and momparilla-but with long and careful processing, the Lentils are one of those delicacies for which even today the most loyal customers still go to Romeo Viganotti‘s.
In the “little factory,” the production of the same is carried out exactly as it has been for years now. Peeling the almonds by hand, passing them through the historic stone refiner with water and sugar; rolling and cutting the resulting almond paste, baking it and enriching it with icing and momparilla are some of the main steps. These alone, however, are not enough. In fact, the expert hands of those who have been working for more than forty years in the workshop and the knowledge of the trade that is now concentrated in a few people are more than indispensable for making Lentils with an unmistakable taste and delicious appearance: in short -it really has to be said- in a workmanlike manner.
Lentils are traditionally made as lozenges, canestrelli (or doughnuts) or even glazed with different aromas and flavors. From lemon to chocolate, orange to pistachio, raspberry to orange blossom, there is something for everyone! What are your favorites?
When you can find the Lenten
From Lent and throughout the Easter season as every year you will find them in the store. Find out the address and opening hours of our historic Genoa chocolate shop by clicking here >>
