I think my favorite thing about living in the Los Angeles area are the farmers markets. My son loves them, too! I have an adorable conversation saved on my phone of him saying “farmers market. blueberries. home. mouth.” I’m not sure what we’re going to do when berry season is over, he’s not yet two so “in season” is going to be quite a feat to explain.
While there is a farmers market across the street from our place every week, I had to take a trip to a larger one. Just to explore. There was more citrus at that location and I picked up some kumquats for my husband. Kumquats were one of the first “adventurous” items we picked up at the grocery store and he’s grown quite a fondness for them.
This particular batch was turned into jam! The resulting condiment has a bitter tartness. I think it’s the first time I’ve understood bitter as being a positive flavor component. The bitterness from the kumquat peels provides a balance with their natural sour edge.
Kumquat Jam
Ingredients:
- 16 oz kumquats, sliced and seeds removed
- 1 C sugar
- 1/2 C orange juice
- 1/2 C water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Steps:
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot over medium heat. Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer. Simmer over medium-low heat for 35 minutes or until thickened, stirring frequently.
*This recipe is adapted from Nicole at http://wonkywonderful.com/kumquat-jam-recipe/*
Sew You Think You Can Cook 
I had actually never had a kumquat until recently but when I finally tried it I really liked it! This jam sounds great 🙂 I’d love it on toast!
Yes, they’re a fun little fruit.
I have to admit I’m a little jealous that you have fresh fruits and vegetables so readily available, and such a variety too! We have a pretty short growing season, but boy do I take advantage of the farmers market every May-October! Your jam looks wonderful….such a pretty color! 😀
LOL – yes, I remember when I realized that bitter – like sour – was a flavor I could work with, not just try to mask! It opens new possibilities…
I envy you your kumquats. They don’t usually make it to the East Coast (and when they do, they’re price as a Luxury Item – out of my range!) Such lovely little fruit…
Yes, I didn’t see them very often in Ohio.
I love checking out other farmer’s markets. It’s fun seeing what different produce they might have. We don’t get kumquats here though, so I’m envious! We do have them in the supermarket, however. 🙂 I was wondering how long you think the jam would last in the fridge?
The original poster said one week, but we’re going on 3 weeks right now. I’m not a health expert though, but if it’s not growing anything and doesn’t smell funny I say it’s still okay. 😉
I ADORE kumquats, but we don’t find them here in SA very often. I’m drooling just thinking about them, ha ha ha!
Wow, the color is stunning! Perfect for my morning toast!!!
Thanks, Liz!
This looks so good!!
Thanks!
Beautiful color!