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Kumquats – Little Fruits With a Lot of Taste

Kumquats (also known as dwarf oranges) are closely related to citrus fruits. The peel is edible. There are two types of kumquat: spherical and oblong. On average, the fruits are up to 4 cm long and 2.5 cm wide in diameter.

Origin

South Africa, Spain, Israel, Argentina, South America.

Taste

The taste of the skin is rather tart-sweet, and the flesh has a tangy bitter note.

Use

Kumquats can be enjoyed in many ways. The fruits are mostly eaten fresh and whole. They can also be processed into tasty desserts and jams. As a side dish or in sauces, they give meat and rice dishes an exotic touch. A special refinement are iced kumquats as cocktail fruits or as an alternative to ice cubes.

Storage

Kumquats will keep in the fridge for about a week. They have a slightly shorter shelf life than other citrus fruits. When purchased, the skin of the fruit should be firm, smooth, and shiny.

What is the best way to eat kumquats?

Kumquats are best eaten whole — unpeeled. Their sweet flavor actually comes from the peel, while their juice is tart. The only caveat is that if you’re allergic to the peel of common citrus fruits, you may need to pass up kumquats. If the tart juice turns you off, you can squeeze it out before eating the fruit.

What is a kumquat taste like?

The kumquat’s flavor is distinctly citrusy. While the fruit is slightly sweet, the overwhelming flavor is sour and tangy. The kumquat’s peel is surprisingly appetizing.

Can kumquat be eaten raw?

Most people eat kumquats raw — you don’t even need to peel them. Be sure to get rid of the seeds, though. You can also enjoy them: In jam, jelly, or marmalade.

What are the benefits of eating kumquats?

  • Gallstone Depletion.
  • Helps the Digestive System.
  • Aids in Controlling your Blood Sugar.
  • Helps in Glowing Skin.
  • Anti-Aging Properties.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties.
  • Supports Hair Growth.
  • Protects Against Scurvy.
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Written by John Myers

Professional Chef with 25 years of industry experience at the highest levels. Restaurant owner. Beverage Director with experience creating world-class nationally recognized cocktail programs. Food writer with a distinctive Chef-driven voice and point of view.

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