Description
The Tsakoniki Melitzana Leonidiou PDO is a particular kind of aubergine produced exclusively in the area of the Leonidio plain.
Production Area
The production area of the Tsakoniki Melitzana Leonidiou PDO is in the prefecture of Arcadia, in the plain of Leonidio, delimited on the east by the sea, on the north by the Tsakoniki rocks, on the south by the rocks of the prophet Elias of Mesochori and the Parnon mountains and on the west by the rocks of Aghios Nikolaus, in the Peloponnese region.
Production Method
The aubergine cultivation is done on the sandy-argillaceous soil following the "open field" cultivation technique. The ripening and the harvest start in the month of May-June and last until November. The production capacity is very high - it is calculated that annually approximately 6,600 kg of this vegetable are obtained from the approximately 800 hectares dedicated to its production.
Appearance and Flavour
The Tsakoniki Melitzana Leonidiou PDO has an oblong shape, a purple colour with white stripes (this variety's main characteristic). The flavour is sweet and the dimensions vary from 15 cm to 22 cm.
History
The origins of the Tsakoniki Melitzana Leonidiou PDO are linked to its importation from Asia in the 12th and 13th centuries.
Gastronomy
The Tsakoniki Melitzana Leonidiou PDO should be kept in cool places and, in order to best appreciate all its first-rate organoleptic properties, should be consumed fresh. It is used as basic ingredient of many recipes and is part, by full right, of the Mediterranean diet. Amongst the recipes in which it is used, may we recall the famous spoon sweet melitzanaki, which is characteristic of the production area, but famous throughout the country.
Marketing
The product is sold as Tsakoniki Melitzana Leonidiou PDO. It is marketed in containers carrying a label with the product information.
Distinctive Features
The Tsakoniki Melitzana Leonidiou PDO is the only aubergine type that presents the characteristic white stripes on its external surface. It is very much appreciated for its sweet and not aggressive flavour, and is very important for the production area's economy, so much so that an Aubergine Festival is organised every year. At this festivity, it is possible to taste over 50 dishes prepared using this excellent vegetable.
