Selection and storage

Kumquats found in the markets from November through June. 'Nagami' and the ‘Meiwa’ are the two most common varieties of kumquats grown inside the United States. Saint Joseph, Florida is nicknamed as kumquat capital of Florida since Nagami variety kumquats grown in much larger scale there.

While buying, select kumquat fruit that is firm, smooth, brilliant orange color, with attached stem. Avoid unripe, green color fruits and those with surface cuts, bruise, or damage.

Store them at room temperature for about 3-4 days, and inside the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Frozen kumquat puree can be stored for six months or more.

Preparation and serving tips

Kumquat cut sections with banana fruit.

Photo courtesy: jlastras Kumquat fruit as a garnish! Photo: erinmchardy Candied kumquats! Photo courtesy: mariko

Kumquats must be allowed to ripen fully on the tree before they picked. They can be enjoyed fresh, added in salads, or candied, and as a garnish.

Wash fresh fruits in a bowl of cool water. Gently pat dry using soft cloth/tissue.

Kumquats taste best if they gently rolled or squeezed before being eaten. This process unifies sugary ingredients in its thin rind with that of underlying tart flesh. Eat kumquats as one would eat grapes or olives with the peel.

Here are some serving tips:

Add fresh kumquat slices to fruit salads or fruit bowls.

Kumquats can be an attractive garnish on a platter.

Kumquats make great marmalade, preserves and candied. It is so because unlike other citrus fruits like Seville-orange, which has bitter tasting peel, kumquats rind is very sweet, therefore desirable.

Additionally, pureed kumquats are much sought-after in the preparation of sauce, fruit-concentrates, jams, and jellies.

They also can be used for the preparation of juice, cakes, pie, ice creams…etc.

Ripe kumquat fruit is also used as a marinade and as a garnish in poultry, lamb, and seafood dishes.

Safety profile

As in any other Rutaceae (citrus) category fruits, kumquat fruit too can be consumed safely in pregnant, nursing mothers and children. (Medical disclaimer).

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