The mini-citrus.
Origin
Native to China and cultivated in East Asia for many years before showing up in Europe and North America.
Similar to oranges and many other citrus, kumquats grow on trees with thorny branches, that grow more bushy than tall. [I will add that the kumquat tree appears to be susceptible to cross-pollination as we've seen two humongous, and quite bumpy-skinned "lemon-quats" grow all on their own this season. They dropped before reaching full ripeness though, so we can only speculate on their flavor and genetics.]
A single, mature kumquat tree can produce hundreds (if not thousands) of fruit. [This year, our tree in it's fourth season produced about 25 fruit so we're almost at full harvest ;) ]
Taste, Texture, Touch & Appearance
Kumquats basically look like an orange, but are about the size of a grape or olive.
Unlike oranges, the skin of a kumquat is typically consumed as well; and, it is the skin that offers a sweetness countering the sourness of the inner fruit.
Ways to Enjoy
Pop them into your mouth! You can roll them around first (shown in the video) to encourage the release of their essential oils and aromatics.
Slice or chop, and add to a fruit or veggie salad!
Make a jam!
Notable Nutrients
Kumquats are a good source of Vitamin C and fiber.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant, helping protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Vitamin C is needed to make collagen which helps wounds heal.
Fiber
Fiber helps push food through our digestive tract.
Fiber scrubs the insides of our intestines as it moves through our digestive tract.
Gut Microbiome Connection
Our gut microbiome loves the introduction of new foods, especially new fruits and veggies.
Because kumquats are high in fiber, it gives all of the microorganisms plenty of work to do which helps increase their population.
Eating different foods and/or preparing foods in different ways encourages the development and sustainability of new microorganisms as they are needed to help break down the foods we eat.
Bacteria are supported by the types of foods we eat. There are some bacteria that we know are not beneficial to our gut, and these bacteria are present with diets high in added sugars, low fiber, and high amounts of animal fats and protein. While other bacteria thrive with diets high in fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Eating a wide variety of fruits and veggies encourages the density and diversity of healthy bacteria.
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