The benefits and harms of kumquat, how it is eaten, what its taste is like, recipes. Fresh, dried and dried kumquat fruits - what kind of fruit is it and how is it eaten

Greetings to all readers! Do you want to try an unusual sunny fruit that will bring you many benefits? Surely yes! Therefore, today I will tell you what kumquat is, its benefits and harms, how to eat it, what can be prepared from it and what is its calorie content. And also why the Chinese especially like to eat this dried fruit after the holidays.

Kumquat is still a very exotic fruit for our table. In the meantime, more and more often it can be found on store shelves, and its prices are becoming more or less adequate in many cities of our vast country.

Bright orange miniature fruit leaves few people indifferent. Not always love for him appears at first sight. But he is so engraved in memory that I want to give him a second and third chance. And then, after you taste it, you want to include it in your diet more and more often. If you love citrus fruits, then you should definitely try this fruit.

So, kumquat, what is this unusual fruit, which a few years ago had practically no fans in our country?

As a rule, it is sold in small plastic packages in hypermarket departments, but it can also be sold individually. People are still looking at this curiosity with interest, but they prefer to buy familiar fruits. Will it be included in everyday demand? Don't know. Perhaps if everyone reads my article, then definitely yes! Kidding.

Now its value is not stable. I talked with friends from different cities, and was surprised how much she hesitates. It differs greatly depending on the region. This fruit is mainly supplied to us from China, Ecuador and Thailand.

In Russia, kumquat bears fruit well in the Black Sea coast zone, and in addition, many craftsmen successfully grow it even at home in flower pots. I heard that in Abkhazia it ripens closer to February, and at a temperature of around 10 degrees it is able to retain all the taste properties for up to six months, and sometimes more!

The kumquat is an evergreen citrus tree native to China. The first records about him date back to the twelfth century. And only in the 19th century did the doors to Europe and America open for him.

By the way, in Japan it is called differently - kinkan. This word has a very beautiful translation - golden orange. From Chinese, it is translated as a golden apple. Another name for it is frotunella.

And all because it has a bright golden-orange color, and in terms of sweet and sour taste it resembles either an orange or a tangerine. Yes, and outwardly it looks like a small elongated orange.

I have only seen a small kumquat for sale. Although there are several types of it, hybrids, and it can reach 4-5 cm in width and length. And now you already have a "golden apple" in color and shape.

Its uniqueness is that this plant does not absorb nitrates at all! And this, you see, is very relevant and especially valuable for the present time!

Kumquat photo

I can not resist, and I want to show you a photo of a kumquat. The plant is not very large, in an artificial environment it usually grows in height no more than one and a half meters. In the natural, this is a rather large tree and reaches 4-5 meters. Likes a warm, humid climate and good lighting.

While maintaining the right microclimate, kinkan can please you with fruits, even growing on the windowsill along with neighbors - flowers. In this case, the plant will be quite miniature.

Kumquat how to eat it

Not everyone knows how to eat kumquats. In the first place, many try to cut or peel the peel, and this is quite inconvenient on such a small fruit. Therefore, I will facilitate your efforts and open a secret - this fruit can be eaten whole! Yes, yes, right with the skin, as you eat, for example, grapes.

I hope that you wash it thoroughly before doing this so that no bad things get into your body.

The taste of the peel is usually sweeter than the pulp itself, it has sourness and bitterness. And all together leaves an unusual aftertaste. Some people dip the kumquat in sugar and then bite it into pieces.

Try to find kumquats from Hong Kong, which are said to have the sweetest flesh. From sour varieties, you can make jam, marmalade or fragrant candied fruits. You can also make smoothies by grinding a kumquat with your favorite fruit and adding a little sugar if needed. It can be eaten raw, dried, and dried.

In general, the list of recipes where kumquat is used is very plentiful. Judge for yourself, it is added to both fish and meat dishes baked in the oven, giving them a piquant touch.

And also in all kinds of salads, including fruit salads, desserts, pastries, cereals, yogurts, cottage cheese and curd masses, casseroles, sauces, jams, jellies, marmalade, cocktails and snacks.

And by passing it through a juicer, you can get a refreshing vitamin drink at any time of the year.

Golden in color, kumquat is not only interesting for filling dishes, but also great for decorating them. It can be strung on skewers with other fruits, or you can cling it, cut into circles, to glasses and glasses, thus decorating any table. It really gives a lot of potential for culinary creativity, so experiment!

Now you know what kumquat is, and now I will tell you how to choose this fruit. The main indicator before buying is its peel. Look for fruits with a shiny bright skin, without obvious damage, cracks and spots! In terms of softness, it should be neither too hard nor too soft. You need to look for something in between to get a ripe but overripe fruit.

You can store it in the refrigerator and freezer. To do this, wash it thoroughly, then dry it from water and then put it away for storage.

Kumquat benefit and harm

Nature did not skimp on the beneficial properties of kumquat, and despite its small size, it contains a storehouse of vitamins. I will talk about the benefits further, but as for the harm, then with increased acidity or kidney disease, it is better to refuse kumquat.

And now about the vitamin filling of kumquat, I suggest you get acquainted with it.

Vitamins:

Trace elements:

• Iron.
• Manganese.
• Zinc.
• Copper.

Macronutrients:

• Potassium.
• Calcium.
• Sodium.
• Magnesium.
• Phosphorus.

Fatty acid:

• Omega 3.
• Omega 6.
• Omega 9 etc.

Essential oils.

Impressive list?

Vitamin C in kumquat is almost 50%, so it is an ideal natural remedy during epidemics at the junction of the "snotty" seasons - autumn and spring. It is this vitamin that will help you maintain immunity and resist viruses.

Due to fiber, kumquat will help normalize the gastrointestinal tract. You can tell a lot of interesting things about fiber. And in order not to retell again, I recommend that you read. After it, you will certainly want to include fiber in your diet.

Useful properties of kumquat:

• Maintaining the body's resistance to pathogenic bacteria.
• Antibacterial properties of the peel: it can be heated and inhaled. Thanks to the content of essential oils, cough and runny nose pass faster.
• Elimination of constipation, bloating and other problems with the gastrointestinal tract.
• Helps remove cholesterol, promotes the breakdown of fat.
• It is a good source of vitamins for those who are on a diet.
• It has a beneficial effect on the skin, protecting it and prolonging youth.
• Due to vitamin A, it is useful for vision.
• Calcium helps keep bones strong.
• Improves the condition of teeth, hair and nails.
• Helps fight excess weight.
• Has antifungal properties.
• Energizes and helps fight blues.

dried kumquat

If fresh kumquat has a sour taste, then dried kumquat, on the contrary, is sweet. It contains more calories than raw fruit. Therefore, do not get carried away with it if you are overweight, have a metabolic disorder or diabetes.

Dried kumquat should not be very beautiful appearance, pale orange. However, they like to sell it on sale in the same fiery golden color as fresh. Unfortunately, this suggests that dyes were poured into it. Whether to buy it in this form is up to you.

In dried form, it also has a beneficial effect on the body. And there is such a bike that the Chinese eat it after the holidays, as a remedy for a hangover. I do not know if this is true, but keep in mind to whom this may be relevant.

kumquat calories

The calorie content of kumquat depends on whether it is raw or dried. So, raw contains about 70 kcal, and dried more than 280 kcal (per 100g).

Those who are actively losing weight and are on a strict diet can include it fresh in their diet. This will provide useful trace elements and energize without a lot of extra calories.

That's all I wanted to tell you today. Now you know what kumquat is, about its invaluable benefits for our body, and about the cases in which it can be harmful. Eat it to your health, it will help diversify your usual menu and improve your mood with its color alone! Share the article with your friends through the social network buttons and visit my blog more often.

Best regards, Anastasia Smolinets

Kumquat (known as golden orange, fortunella, kinkan) is a miniature citrus fruit of a low (up to 4 m) tree, up to 4 cm in diameter, covered with a bright yellow or orange peel, divided inside into slices. Reminiscent of a miniature orange, only more oval.

The taste is more like a tangerine, it has sourness, it is completely edible.

How is kumquat used? How many calories does a fruit contain? Benefit and harm - how does kumquat affect the body?

The chemical composition of kumquat

Kumquat contains many vitamins and minerals

Kinkan is an infrequent guest on store shelves. But you can meet it in a different state, its nutritional value will depend on it. Fresh kumquat has a calorie content of 71 kcal per 100 g. The calorie content of 100 g of dried kumquat is slightly lower, 55 kcal. Dried kumquat has the highest calorie content per 100 g - up to 280 kcal.

• 2 g proteins;
• 1 g fat;
• 16 g of carbohydrates.

Is it possible to afford kinkan with diabetes? The glycemic index of kumquat is 35 units: the fruit for diabetes is recommended for consumption.

Useful properties and contraindications

The benefits of kumquat for the body are higher than those of other citrus fruits, because they eat it with a peel, absorbing the full range of nutrients.

The following properties of the kinkan are distinguished:

• disinfectant;
• antiviral;
• cleansing;
• mucolytic;
• restorative;
• diuretic.

To relieve swelling and remove fluid from the body, you can also eat exotic lychee fruit.

Kumquat is used in the following cases:

• Phytoncides, which are part of the peel and essential oil of kinkan, disinfect the air in the room;
• Regular consumption of this citrus fruit effectively affects the immune forces of the body;
• Fortunello has long been used to treat coughs: sputum discharge improves, nasal breathing is facilitated. Inhalations with kinkan oil are effective during epidemics of acute respiratory infections, influenza;
• Kumquat is also effective for metabolism: fat burning is accelerated, the liver and gallbladder are cleansed;
• Activates the work of the brain, indispensable for mental workers;
• The usefulness of Fortunello is also in the ability to reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol, stabilize cardiovascular activity, and normalize blood pressure;
• Improves the emotional background: depression, stress, neuroses are not terrible for people who use kumquat daily.

How many fruits can you eat per day? The optimal amount is up to 10 berries.

Can pregnant women eat this fruit? Is kumquat good for pregnancy? The combination of substances in the composition is not dangerous for a developing organism. If there is no allergy, feel free to use the fruit. It will remove the manifestations of toxicosis: nausea, vomiting, positively affect the general condition of the pregnant woman, tones. In addition, the essential oil is effective against stretch marks, cellulite and sagging skin.

What are the benefits of berries for women? They are used in many nail, skin and hair care procedures. Suppress the development of fungal and bacterial infections.
Benefits for men - when using 200-300 g of kinkan, a hangover is removed. In addition, being a natural aphrodisiac, it enhances potency.

An excellent tool for improving potency is pomelo

Low calorie content and rich composition make kumquat effective for weight loss. When fruits are included in the diet, metabolism is accelerated, digestion is improved, and excess fluid is removed from the body.

You can learn more about the benefits of kumquat from the video:

Useful properties of dried fruits

What is useful dried kumquat? Already by the fact that it retains all the valuable substances in the composition. In addition, its calorie content is even lower than that of a fresh fruit, which means that it is more attractive for losing weight.

On sale you can see fruits of green, yellow, orange and almost red colors. These should be bought with caution: sometimes this color is given to the fruits by a chemical dye, and not a variety.

What are the health benefits of dried green kumquat? It contains more vitamin C and is less allergic than its brightly colored cousins. Its taste is slightly more sour.
What is useful kumquat yellow? It contains a large proportion of vitamin A, useful for vision.
Dried fruit is also satisfying: the feeling of hunger will disappear for a long time.

Perhaps you are also interested in knowing how grapefruit is useful and how you can lose weight with it? You will find all information

Dried kumquat: useful properties

What are the benefits of dried kumquat?
The benefits of dried kumquat are higher than those of fresh or dried kumquat:

• Only dried fruit contains a special substance that is effective in combating fungal diseases;
• It is more effective against colds and flu, inflammation. A decoction of dried fruit strengthens the immune system, tones;
• Chewing fruits is good for gums, throat with inflammatory diseases;
• Compresses help relieve joint pain;
• Increases vitality, normalizes the work of the digestive tract, improves digestion.

How much dried kumquat can you eat per day? Due to its high calorie content - no more than 70 g.

Contraindications

In addition to individual intolerance and allergy to fruit, there are a number of other contraindications:

• With long-term contact with mucous membranes, it has an irritating effect;
• Fruit should not be consumed by people suffering from diseases of the kidneys and urinary system;
• With caution, it is eaten with diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• Blood pressure should be controlled by people with low blood pressure;
• It is undesirable to use it for lactating women, because. there is a possibility of allergies and digestive disorders in the baby. It is better to introduce this fruit into the diet from the age of 3 in stages.

Methods of application and use

The low prevalence of the fruit did not affect the breadth of its application. He won fame in cooking, saturating the human body with useful substances. Not spared its healing properties and cosmetology.

In cooking

Many dishes can be prepared from kinkans:

• Fresh fruit is good in salads - it will give them an exquisite taste, aroma, and most importantly - it will be a bright decoration of the dish;
• An interesting sweet and sour taste of fruits is used in the preparation of sauces for meat and vegetable dishes;
• Fortunello drinks are popular - cocktails, liqueurs, tinctures and even compotes;
• Kinkan is added as a filler to yoghurts, cottage cheese, sweet pastries; decorate them with cakes and desserts;
• Children will definitely like marmalade, candied fruit, jam from this fruit.

Kumquat jam is prepared according to the following recipe: fruits and water - in equal parts, lemon juice (to taste) and vanillin (optional) are added. Pre-kinkan is pricked with a fork or a toothpick, boiled for 10 minutes, cooled. Boil in sugar syrup until the fruit is transparent. Hot laid out in jars, rolled up.
There are also options for jam from halves of kinkan and fruits cut into circles.

You will learn a detailed recipe for kumquat jam from the video:

The calorie content of kumquat in syrup is 240-250 kcal.
The recipe for candied kumquat (calorie content - 65 kcal) involves pre-boiling the fruit for the softness of the final product. After cooking, the kinkan is dried on parchment paper.

In cosmetology

A small Japanese orange has unique properties in cosmetology:

• Its juice, when applied daily to the face, will not only prevent the appearance of freckles, age spots, but also get rid of them. The skin will look healthy, toned, its color will even out;
• Kinkan essential oil is also useful for the face: it has nourishing properties, the skin will become velvety, elastic, dryness and flaking will disappear;
• The essential oil added to the bath has a relaxing effect, calms the nervous system;
• A few drops of oil added to shampoo, balm will make hair more manageable, nourish it, and prevent brittleness;
• In crushed form, dried fruits are used as a scrub.

Orange essential oil has also found wide application in cosmetology.

Having learned what a kumquat is and how it is useful, we can conclude that it is necessary to use it. When choosing fresh fruits, pay attention to their density, uniform color, absence of dark spots and rot. It is still rarely found in stores, so the best way to get fruits is to have such a plant at home. An unpretentious fruit-bearing tree, decorative all year round - an ideal houseplant.

Similar content

Botanical name: Kumquat or Kinkan. Belongs to the genus Kumquat, Rutovye family. Selected in the subgenus Fortunella, numbering 6 species of kumquat.

Homeland of the kumquat: Southeast Asia.

Lighting: bright, scattered.

The soil: light, nutritious, fertile, containing leaf humus, sod, vermiculite and coarse sand.

Watering: moderate.

Maximum tree height: 4.5 m

Average life expectancy: 40 years.

Landing: seeds, cuttings, layering, grafting.

Kumquat plant: what is it?

Kumquat is a low, evergreen shrub with a compact spherical dense crown, reaching 2.5-4.5 m in height. The leaves are oblong-elliptical, green, entire. Flowers are bisexual, white-pink, fragrant. Blooms in July-August. Flowering lasts 5-7 days. After 2-3 weeks, the tree may bloom again. The fruits are elongated oval or rounded, golden yellow or bright orange, up to 5 cm long, up to 4 cm wide, outwardly resembling miniature oranges. The pulp is juicy, fragrant, tastes sweet or slightly sour, consists of 4-7 shares. Inside contains 2-5 seeds. The skin is thin, smooth, edible, sweetish, spicy. The taste of kumquat fruits resemble tangerines. Ripens in December-January. Fruiting is plentiful, annual.

Where does kumquat grow?

What is kumquat is well known in Southeast Asia, Japan, China, the Middle East, where this culture occupies large plantations and also grows wild.

In Europe, the fruit is called "Japanese orange", in China and Japan "golden orange".

Kinkan loves sunlight and grows well in hot, humid climates. The most comfortable air temperature for its development is 25-30 °C. However, in extreme heat, with a lack of moisture, the plant sheds leaves.

A photo of a kumquat proves that its miniature, yellowish fruits bear a strong resemblance to citrus:

Photo gallery

citrus fruit kumquat

Kumquat: what is it and how is it eaten? Kumquat is a fruit that is consumed fresh and is also widely used in cooking. Fresh miniature fruits decorate various hot and cold dishes, add to salads, cocktails. In addition, savory sweet and sour sauces are made from them, which are seasoned with meat and vegetables.

The "golden apple" goes well with pork, chicken, fish. It is also used in the manufacture of desserts. Added to curd puddings and yoghurts.

Sweet and sour, aromatic juice with a pleasant refreshing taste is obtained from the fruits, jelly, jam, candied fruits are made.

Before eating, the fruit is cut into thin slices. Fruits with sweet pulp are eaten raw, with sour pulp they are processed.

The calorie content of 100 g of fresh kumquat is 70 kcal. This is twice as much as calories. This amount of calories in citrus is due to the high sugar content in the pulp.

In 100 g of dried fruit - 250 kcal. Dried - 50 kcal.

"Japanese orange" is 60% pulp, 30% peel and seeds. It contains 80% liquid and 20% solids. Kinkan is rich in B vitamins, vitamin C, minerals, contains essential oils, pectins, proteins, fats, fiber, and ash.

In countries where the kumquat grows, the plant replaces many drugs. It is used in medicine in the fight against colds, bacteria and microbes. Used to treat dry cough. Kinkana essential oils are used to treat diseases of the upper respiratory tract.

It is noticed that when using this fruit, the mood rises, depression disappears. In addition, kumquat citrus relieves hangovers, so it is used after festive feasts.

Below are still photos of the kumquat fruit - parts of the plant:

Photo gallery

When buying, you should pay attention to the appearance of the fruit. It should be smooth, rich yellow in color, moderately soft to the touch, without any damage or stains. Excessive softness indicates that the kinkan is overripe and has begun to deteriorate. Hardness indicates its immaturity.

Store the fruit in a cool place for 3 weeks. In the freezer, its beneficial properties are stored for 6 months.

The kumquat tree is grown as a fruit and ornamental crop. A miniature plant with a compact crown suitable for creating bonsai. Branches with small fruits are used in floristry when making bouquets.

At home, the bush reaches up to 1.5 m.

Varieties and color of kumquat: orange, green and red

In culture, varieties of kumquat are grown, such as: Hong Kong, Malay, Nagami, Nordmann, Marumi, Meiwa, Fukushi, Orangequat Nippon, Variegated, Limequat.

The color of the kumquat and the taste of its pulp depend on the variety.

"Nagami"- a variety imported in 1846 from China. It is one of the most common kumquats in the world. The crown of a tree of this variety is compact, symmetrical, abundantly strewn with fruits during the fruiting period. The fruits are oval in shape, their length is about 2.5-3 cm. The pulp is sweet, tart. "Nagami" is an orange kumquat eaten with a sweet, fleshy rind. It thrives well in warm climates. Blooms 2 times a year. The first flowering occurs in June, the second - at the end of August. In a warm climate, it blooms profusely and bears fruit. The fruits hang on the tree all year round. The grade maintains frosts to -12 °C.

"Orangequat Nippon"- A hybrid of mandarin unshiu and kumquat. Quite a rare and rare variety. Fruits of bright orange color with juicy, sweet pulp of good taste. The flesh becomes sweeter as it ripens. "Orangequat nippon" is frost-resistant, withstands frosts down to -15 ° C, therefore it is recommended for planting in regions where other types of citrus do not take root.

"Hong Kong" is a variety grown in Hong Kong and China. It differs from other varieties in small fruits, reaching 1.5-2 cm in length. The peel of the ripened fruit is bright orange or reddish-orange. The pulp is medium juicy, consists of 4 lobes. The inside contains large, rounded seeds. Red kumquat "Hong Kong" is inedible.

"Malay"- a variety common in the Malay Peninsula. Inedible. Serves as a decorative culture. The peel of the fruit is golden-orange or yellow. The pulp contains 8 seeds.

"variegated"- a hybrid obtained in 1993. It is a small densely leafy tree with variegated leaves painted in cream tones. The fruits are oblong, orange, with light green or light yellow stripes. The pulp is sour, juicy, pleasant taste, without seeds.

"Marumi"- a winter-hardy variety, bred in 1784. The fruits are round or oval, slightly flattened, up to 3.5 cm long. The peel is thin, golden yellow. The pulp is sour, worth 4-7 shares. Trees of this variety reach 4.5 m in height, covered with thorns.

"Fukushi"- a variety common in Japan. It is a low-growing shrub about 1 m high. The crown is spreading, symmetrical. The leaves are oval, large, wide, larger than other varieties of kumquat. The fruits are oval or pear-shaped, 5 cm long. The peel is orange, smooth, thin, fragrant, very sweet. Pulp of medium juiciness, sweet and sour, dessert taste, without seeds.

"Meiva"- a hybrid obtained by crossing varieties "Nagami" and "Marumi". It is a low-growing tree with dense, hard, longitudinally folded leaves. The fruit is round, 4 cm long, with sweet and sour pulp that tastes like lemon. The peel is yellow, thick, sweet. The grade is appreciated for good taste of fruits and decorative effect. Grown in China and Japan.

"Limequat"- a hybrid of kumquat and lime. It is a miniature tree with small, oval, greenish-yellow fruits. This green kumquat has a bittersweet flesh and a pronounced lime flavor. It is eaten along with the sweet skin.

Varieties suitable for growing indoors are: Fukushi, Nagami, Marumi.

Historical information

The first mention of this citrus was found in Chinese scriptures. The kumquat plant was described in 1178 AD. In the Middle Ages, the fruit gained great popularity in Japan. In Europe, it has become known since 1846 thanks to the Anglo-Scottish botanist Robert Fortune, who described it and introduced it to the world.

Despite its close resemblance to citrus fruits, the kumquat was only included in the subgenus Fortunella in 1915.

May-19-2012

Kumquat:

How do you eat kumquats? Yes, you should also know this - after all, the benefits that this wonderful fruit will bring you depend on it. But before we talk about how to eat a kumquat correctly, let's remember what it is - a kumquat.

It grows in Southeast Asia, also on the islands of Japan, in China, in the Middle East, and, in some places, in America. This citrus comes from China. Many people know it by the names fortunella or kinkan. Today, the kumquat is widely cultivated and readily used in cooking by the cuisines of various countries and peoples.

Kumquat is not only one of the healthiest and most delicious fruits. It is also an amazingly beautiful tree with golden fruits and a wonderful aroma. It is also grown as an ornamental houseplant. Twigs with small kumquat fruits are used in floristry as decorations for bouquets.

And the kumquat in Japan is one of the symbols of a happy New Year.

A fruit such as kumquat is a rich source of nutrients (in particular, vitamins and essential oils). It contains vitamins C and P, pectin. Kumquat does not contain nitrates. It has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the digestive system.

Helps relieve stress, drive away apathy and depressed mood. It should be noted the content of antifungal substances in it.

From hoary antiquity to the present day, kumquat is willingly used by traditional medicine of eastern peoples. For example, in China, they are treated with fungal infections (kumquat pulp contains furakumarin, a substance with antifungal action). In some Asian countries, the peel of this fruit is placed near the fire, as they believe that the aroma it exudes heals colds and coughs. To combat coughs and colds, kumquat is used in certain areas of China.

Besides:

The antibacterial properties of the plant help in the prevention and treatment of colds, bacterial and viral diseases.

A tincture prepared from kumquat has long been successfully used in Chinese medicine in the treatment of coughs. Such a tincture gives an even greater effect in combination with honey.

The essential oil extracted from the fruit is used to improve the respiratory tract.

In Chinese medicine, the antifungal properties of the plant, which furocoumarin provides, have long been used. It also helps to cope with pustular infections.

The juice squeezed from the fruit perfectly whitens age spots and freckles. It is often added to creams. But even more often they use raw juice, the effect of it is visible as a result of the first procedure.

But since this fruit is valued primarily for its taste and useful qualities, let's turn to our question - how do they eat it?

The peel of the kumquat is thin and sweet in taste, so the fruit is consumed whole, cutting it into thin slices. When you buy a kumquat, be aware that Hong Kong fruits have the most edible pulp, while others have it sometimes so sour that only the skin can be eaten. I want to note that Asian culinary specialists are aware of how to successfully use even such fruits.

I would also like to say a few words about how it is prepared. Sweet fruits are eaten raw, and sour fruits are used to make jam, marmalade or candied fruit. Kumquat is used in the manufacture of canned food, added to salads, used in the preparation of various dishes from poultry and meat. Separately, it is worth mentioning such a dish as black cod, when it is wrapped around the edges with golden kumquat fruits.

In Europe, kumquat is becoming increasingly popular today as a martini snack - it can successfully replace olives, serve as an ingredient in a salad.

Delicious candied fruits are prepared from the fruits of kinkan. This product is obtained as a result of long cooking of sweet and sour fruit slices in molasses syrup. Candied kumquats are widely used in fragrant pastries: muffins and biscuits, in rich cakes and yeast dough.

Candied fruits of this plant are very high in calories, unlike fresh fruits: 100 grams of kinkan sweets contain up to 284 kcal!

It is very difficult to find fresh kumquats in our country: basically, this fruit is sold in dried or “candied” versions. By the way, similarly to unprocessed fruit, candied fruits of this plant quickly cope with a hangover and are effective for beriberi.

Dried fruits are also on sale. This interesting product is obtained with the help of a dehydrator, or as a result of natural drying of citrus in the sun. Dried kumquat preserves all useful minerals and vitamins, especially pectin, which is why it is not cheap.

True, the dried kumquat does not look very presentable: dark and wrinkled, but incredibly tasty. It is usually supplied by large companies specializing in the production of healthy foods, sold in the form of snacks.

What is useful kumquat in diets for weight loss?

Kumquat normalizes digestion processes, speeds up metabolism, and this is very important for weight loss. In addition, the fruit contains few calories: 71 kcal per 100 g. Therefore, the fruit is great for various diets.

Scientists from the University of London conducted an experiment and found that the daily consumption of sweet and sour fruits helps to get rid of an average of 5 kg per month. The fact is that kumquat contains a special compound that burns extra pounds.

It also includes vitamins that have a positive effect on metabolism - this is the secret to losing weight. It turns out that in order to lose weight, it is enough to eat several kumquat fruits daily. And this, in fact, is not a diet.

Since the kumquat contains few calories, improves metabolism, removes excess fluid and saturates well, the fruit is the best choice for eating during a diet. How to lose weight with this fruit? Everything is very simple. It should be added to various fish, meat dishes and salads, make sauces from the pulp, drink fruit juice and use it as a snack. During a diet with this fruit, you can eat various foods, except for fatty ones. And also you can not eat muffins and sweets.

That is, dairy and sour-milk products should be low in fat content, it is better to choose veal, chicken and beef from meat, eat only rye and whole grain bread. Losing weight on such a diet is very comfortable, it is easy to carry it.

The kumquat diet menu can be anything, the main thing is to eat more of this delicious fruit in the diet. Moreover, there are many recipes with kumquat. These are desserts, soups, salads and other interesting and tasty dishes. It will take several weeks to lose weight on such a diet, as the weight will not go away very quickly. Although it all depends on the initial weight.

" Garden

For the first time, an unusual fruit for Europeans is mentioned in Chinese chronicles of the 11th century. Portuguese sailors brought an outlandish citrus, which was described by a Scottish botanist only in the middle of the 19th century. His name served as the name of a whole family of tropical plants - Fortunella, officially recognized by botanists only at the beginning of the twentieth century.

Native to Indo-China, the kumquat (Golden Orange in Cantonese) differs from oranges in more than just its appearance — the sweet skin hides a sour-tasting core.

This is a low tree or shrub with a spherical crown. Can grow up to 3-4 meters tall. It does not apply to centenarians - life expectancy is not more than 40 years. The plant loves bright diffused light. Prefers fertile sandy soil. Like all citrus fruits, it can grow in fairly dry areas - the need for water is quite moderate.

Propagated by both seeds and vegetatively - cuttings, grafting, layering. Nowadays, this miracle of nature grows only in Indochina and Japan - its industrial plantings are developing the Middle East, Florida, and the Mediterranean. Humid subtropics are the favorite climate of this fruit.

Temperature 25-30 o C, together with high humidity, is the most comfortable for him. With a lack of water and at higher thermometer readings, the kumquat throws off its leaves. Often grown as an ornamental plant in open ground and indoor.

It grows as a very decorative evergreen shrub or tree, first with fragrant large flowers, and then strewn with oval fruits. Up to 5 cm long, they look like miniature oranges.

Unlike its namesake, the "golden orange" has only 4-7 slices. Sweet and sour pulp contains approximately 5 seeds (according to the number of slices). The main difference from all citrus fruits is that it is eaten with the skin, it is thin, sweet in taste.

It turns out that the sweetest skin of a wild-growing kumquat comes from Hong Kong.

Its fruits ripen for the New Year holidays, like all citrus fruits of our hemisphere. All varieties have a bountiful harvest.

It has already been said that the kumquat is a resident of the subtropics and tropics. Attempts to forcibly relocate him to the north failed. It turned out that his cuttings took root on the deciduous semi-shrub "poncirus". On such a rootstock, a kumquat can endure frost down to -10-15 ° C..

The fruits of such a plant are no longer as sweet as in their homeland in the tropics, but this does not stop gardeners - the work of breeders has not yet ended.

Calorie content and composition

Given the high percentage concentration of water (up to 80), kumquat has a very low calorie content - 71 kcal / 100 grams. However, when drying, the calorie content increases to 250 kcal / 100g.

The list of vitamins present is headed by ascorbic acid. In addition to vitamin C, kinkan is rich in vitamins A, E, B3 and B5.

Recommendations to use the fruits along with the peel did not appear out of the blue - it is the thin delicate skin that is rich in trace elements and minerals. The composition of the fruits is characterized by a high content of potassium (regulates the heart rhythm), calcium, sodium, magnesium, microdoses of zinc and iron. Essential oils, monosaccharides and polyunsaturated fatty acids add popularity to kumquat as a valuable dietary product.

Kumquat fruits are very useful, as they absolutely do not absorb nitrates from the soil. This is a completely unique property for the current environmental situation is very relevant.

Useful properties of this fruit and harm to the human body

Chinese traditional medicine has long used the bactericidal properties of kumquat. Even now, the juice of these fruits suppress the development of internal and external infections, respiratory diseases. Inhalation with kumquat oils is one of the best ways to prevent this disease during an influenza epidemic, alleviate the condition with a dry, painful cough, chronic runny nose.

The unusually high content of ascorbic acid brings the body out of a hangover, fresh consumption of several fruits helps to quickly get out of the state of withdrawal. It is enough just to chew a few dried fruits - the effect is noticeable after a few minutes.

Regular consumption of "golden orange" normalizes immunity, although this property is inherent in all citrus fruits. In the treatment of skin diseases, kumquat essential oil is often used.. Its composition has a tonic effect on the human as a whole, and especially on the liver and gallbladder - it helps to break down fats.

Kinkan oil is successfully used in cosmetology for spa treatments., and in combination with oils of other plants successfully treat problem skin. Interestingly, regular procedures with the oil of this fruit relieve postpartum stretch marks, as well as cellulite.

In aromatherapy The essential oil of this citrus is used to treat stress, as well as sleep disorders.. Instead of an aroma lamp, you can spread the pieces of peel on thermal radiators - ensure a healthy sleep and disinfect the room.

From traditional Chinese medicine, it has become common practice application of kinkan tincture with honey, which quickly reduces the level of bad cholesterol, normalizes the heart rhythm.

How low-calorie kumquat found its way into weight management diets. But this applies only to fresh fruits - the calorie content of fruits increases many times during processing and drying.

Contraindications for use

We figured out the benefits that this fruit can bring to human health, now let's talk about the possible harm. Unfortunately, citrus intolerance is quite common. If you are prone to various allergies, you should not risk eating more than two fruits at a time.

If you are trying a new fruit for the first time, limit the first time to half. Follow the state of the body. The portion can be increased if unpleasant consequences are not observed.

Kumquat is not prohibited for pregnant women at all, only the special susceptibility of the woman's body and the fetus to a possible change in diet should be taken into account. Practice shows that this citrus copes well with early toxicosis. Doctors usually confine themselves to general recommendations - “do not abuse”.

It is clear that due to the high content of organic acids, this citrus is not recommended for gastroenterologist patients. Contraindications are also diseases of the kidneys and urinary organs.. Regarding patients with diabetes, they should also be careful to consume fruit only fresh with constant monitoring of sugar levels.

Kumquat Recipes

The use of kumquat is completely versatile:

• they are eaten fresh (along with the skin),
• in medical advice
• in cosmetology,
• in cooking.

In cooking alone, its use is not limited to the preparation of refreshing drinks - both non-alcoholic and alcoholic. As an ingredient, kumquats are often added to meat, sauces and various salads..

Often it is added to dairy products - curd mass, yogurt.

However The main use of the fruit is for the preparation of desserts and sweets.. From these fruits, blanks are obtained that are perfectly stored all winter - candied fruits. confitures, jam, marshmallow.

In fresh and dried form, kumquat is added to the recipe composition of rich pastries.

It will take:

• fresh fruits - 1 kilogram,
• granulated sugar - 1 kilogram,
• juice of 1 lemon

Cooking

1. Having slightly cut the fruits, blanch them in three waters.
2. From a glass of the last broth, boil the syrup from all the sugar.
3. Place kumquats in hot syrup and boil until thickened.
4. Shortly before cooking, add lemon juice.
5. After cooling, transfer the jam to sterile jars.

Fresh kumquat jam

It will take:

• kumquat fruits - 1 kilogram,
• granulated sugar 1-1.2 kilograms,
• juice of 1 lemon,
• vanilla sugar - 1 sachet.

Cooking

1. Prick the washed fruits (for example, with a fork) and boil for 10 minutes, cool with cold water.
2. In a glass of water (remaining from blanching) dissolve half of all sugar.
3. Fruits are placed in this syrup, brought to a boil and boiled for 5 minutes.
4. When the semi-finished product has cooled down, add some more sugar and boil again for several minutes.
5. For the third time, add the remaining sugar and bring to readiness - the fruits should become translucent.
6. Just before the end, add lemon juice and vanilla sugar.
7. Lay hot in sterile jars and screw on the lids.

Dried fruits: candied fruit

If you cook jam without pre-boiling, the fruits will not boil soft and will be strong. After cooking, put everything in a colander and spread it out in a single layer on a flat dish to dry.

Conclusion

Here is such a “golden orange” from Indochina, which Europe learned about not so long ago. And now his landings have already conquered the Middle East, the Mediterranean coast and California. In tub culture, kumquat grows not only in winter gardens and greenhouses, but also in a city apartment.. A low evergreen tree with fragrant flowers and elegant fruits is a living corner of the subtropics within the walls of a high-rise building ...