Description
This kumquat marmalade recipe yields a deliciously tangy and sweet preserve made from fresh kumquats, sugar, and lemon juice. Perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or using as a glaze, this homemade marmalade balances the unique citrus flavor of kumquats with a smooth, slightly chunky texture achieved by blending to your liking. The process involves boiling and reducing the ingredients to the ideal setting point before preserving in sterilized jars for long-lasting enjoyment.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 14 ounces kumquats (approximately 12 larger-sized kumquats)
- 10.6 ounces granulated sugar
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Wash Fruit: Rinse the fresh kumquats thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Cut Kumquats: Slice the kumquats into thin rounds. Carefully remove and discard all seeds (pips) from the slices.
- Mix Ingredients: Place the kumquat slices into a pot. Add the sugar and lemon juice, stirring to combine well.
- Bring to a Boil: Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Reduce Heat and Cook: Lower the heat to medium and continue cooking the marmalade, stirring occasionally as it thickens and reduces.
- Blend to Desired Consistency: Use a hand blender to blend the marmalade to your preferred texture. The recipe suggests keeping it slightly chunky.
- Test Setting Point: Check if the marmalade has set by placing a small amount on a cold plate. If it runs, continue cooking. Alternatively, use a candy thermometer to reach a temperature of 105°C (220°F), indicating it has set properly.
- Prepare Jars: Clean and sterilize jars and lids carefully. Pour a small amount of liquor into the lids to eliminate any residual microbes.
- Pour Marmalade into Jars: Transfer the hot marmalade into the prepared jars, filling them up to the rim. Seal immediately and invert the jars to help create a vacuum seal.
- Store: Once the jars are cool enough to handle, turn them back upright and store them in a dry, cool place. After opening, keep the marmalade refrigerated.
Notes
- Ensure to remove all seeds from the kumquat slices to avoid bitterness in the marmalade.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the marmalade more thoroughly; for chunkier texture, blend lightly.
- Proper sterilization of jars and lids is critical for safe preservation and to prolong shelf life.
- Using lemon juice helps balance the sweetness and acts as a natural preservative.
- If you do not have a candy thermometer, use the cold plate test to check for setting consistently.
- Store opened jars in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks for best quality.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Preserve
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International