Kumquat

Kumquats are deliciously small fruits which resemble an orange. Microscopic in size, once you learn to use this unique tasting fruit, you will certainly become addicted to its tart taste. Kumquats grow on evergreen shrubs which grow from eight to fifteen feet in size. Containing dense branches and thorns, the leaves of the kumquat shrub are dark green and contain white flowers. Because of the small size of the fruit, the kumquat shrub can produce thousands of fruit in a single year.
Native to southeast Asian, the Kumquat shrub has been known for its culinary and medicinal benefits since the 12th century and was first exported to Europe in the 19th century. Often eaten raw, the rind of the kumquat is sweet while the center is sour. In addition to being a great fruit to enjoy raw, the kumquat makes a great addition to a homemade preserve or jelly.

Key Nutrients

Kumquats are a great source of vitamin C, flavonoids, iron and calcium. Kumquat is also a great source of dietary fiber and is low in both saturated and unsaturated fat.

Health Benefits

Iron –Iron, found in red blood cells, is an integral part of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin carries oxygen from the lungs to the cells. Iron is an essential component of many enzymes necessary for various chemical reactions in the body.

Calcium – Calcium is an important mineral for bone and teeth growth and maintenance. It is also an important mineral in terms of cardiovascular function.

Flavonoids – Flavonoids are a class of antioxidants which help to promote healthy cell growth and reduce inflammation. They are also a powerful class of molecules when it comes to reducing the risk of certain cancers.

Vitamin C – Regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin C helps the body develop resistance against infections and scavenges harmful, pro-inflammatory free radicals. Vitamin C also helps to prevent respiratory problems such as asthma and lung cancer. Vitamin C has been shown to lower blood pressure, and therefore lessen the probability of hypertension.

Season

Kumquats are available year round, but you might have some problem finding them during the Fall months.

Nutrition Information

Per 1 Fruit (19 grams):

Calories (cKal): 13
Protein (grams): .36
Total Fat (grams): .16
Carbohydrates (grams): 3.02
Fiber (grams): 1.2

Buying and Storing

When buying kumquats, make sure the fruit is semi-soft to the touch and free of blemishes. When storing at home, kumquats can last on your countertop for up to three weeks.

Best Way to Add to Diet

Kumquats can be enjoyed whole, provided they are not too bitter. Kumquats also taste great when cooked in a small amount of water, honey and sea salt.