Drying Kumquats: A Simple Guide For Aromatic Preservation

Kumquats are a unique citrus fruit with a sweet rind and sour flesh. They are usually eaten whole, but can also be used in a variety of recipes. If you want to dry kumquats to preserve their aroma, there are a few methods you can try. One popular method is to make candied kumquats, where the fruit is sliced thinly, coated in a sugar syrup, and then baked at a low temperature for several hours. This process dries out the kumquats while infusing them with a sweet flavour. Another method is to use a dehydrator, which uses hot air to remove the moisture from the kumquats, resulting in a crunchy texture. For those with access to specialised equipment, air-impingement jet drying (AIJD) is a rapid drying method that maintains the quality and bioactive activity of the fruit.

Wash and dry the kumquats

To dry kumquats, you'll first need to wash and dry them. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Select high-quality, ripe kumquats that are firm, plump, and bright orange in colour. Avoid any with blemishes, soft spots, or green patches.

Step 2: Wash the kumquats under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue. Gently rub the peel to ensure it is clean, as this part of the fruit is edible.

Step 3: Use a clean kitchen or paper towel to thoroughly pat the kumquats dry. It is important to remove excess moisture to prevent the growth of mould.

Step 4: Inspect each kumquat and remove any damaged or spoiled fruits. This step will ensure that no compromised kumquats affect the others during storage or the drying process.

Now that your kumquats are washed and dried, you can proceed to the next steps of the drying process, such as slicing and dehydrating the fruit.

Cut the kumquats in half

To dry kumquats for aroma, you'll first want to cut them in half. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide:

• Wash the kumquats under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue. Use a colander to strain the water.
• Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the kumquats in half lengthwise. Try to make the halves as even as possible.
• Remove any visible seeds with the tip of a knife or a small paring knife. You can also use your thumbs to press against the outside of the halved kumquat, inverting the peel and pushing out the pulp and seeds.
• Place the kumquat halves on a baking sheet or tray. If you're using a dehydrator, arrange them peel-side down to prevent the trays from becoming sticky. This makes cleanup easier and ensures maximum airflow during the drying process.
• Dry the kumquats in an oven or a dehydrator. If using an oven, set the temperature to 200°F and bake them for about 2 hours. Alternatively, use a dehydrator set to 135°F for 6 hours or until they are shrivelled and slightly wrinkled.
• Allow the kumquats to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container, such as a zipper bag or a mason jar, and store them in a cool, dry place. Properly dried and stored kumquats can last for several months.

Remember to wear kitchen gloves if you have sensitive skin, as kumquats can be acidic and may cause irritation. Also, be cautious when handling the knife to avoid any accidental cuts.

Remove seeds and pulp

Removing the seeds and pulp from kumquats is a simple process but can be time-consuming, so it is best to grab a friend to help. First, wash the kumquats under cold water and strain them. Then, using a sharp knife, slice the kumquats into thin rounds. Remove all the visible seeds with the tip of the knife. You can also use a small paring knife for this step. It is more efficient to slice all the kumquats first before removing the seeds.

Place the peels on a dehydrator tray

Now that you have your kumquats washed, trimmed, halved, and deseeded and ready to go, it's time to place them on the dehydrator tray.

First, it's important to note that you should place the peels on the tray with the peel side down. This is because the juicy bits of the fruit can make the tray unnecessarily sticky, which will make cleanup more difficult. By placing the peels peel-side down, you will still get maximum airflow through the tray grid during the dehydration process, but you will also avoid a sticky mess.

If you are using an Excalibur dehydrator, like the one mentioned in the source, you can expect the kumquat peels to be ready after about 6 hours at 135 degrees Fahrenheit. The peels will have shrunk and look a bit wrinkly, and they will be crunchy with a nicely intense flavor.

Store dried kumquats in an airtight container

Once you've dried your kumquats, it's important to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and quality. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store dried kumquats:

• Choose the Right Container: Select an airtight container such as a glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Make sure the container is clean and dry before use.
• Prepare the Kumquats: Ensure that your kumquats are completely dry before storing them. Any remaining moisture can affect their shelf life and cause spoilage.
• Label the Container: It is a good practice to label the container with the date of storage. This helps you keep track of how long the kumquats have been stored.
• Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Place the airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry area, such as a pantry or kitchen cabinet. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
• Check Regularly: From time to time, open the container and check the condition of the kumquats. Make sure there are no signs of moisture or spoilage.
• Consume within Months: Properly stored dried kumquats can last for several months. However, it's best to enjoy them within a reasonable timeframe for the best flavour and texture.
• Store with or without Sugar: You can choose to coat your dried kumquats with granulated sugar before storing them. The sugar helps to preserve the kumquats and enhances their sweetness. However, this step is optional, and you can also store them without sugar.

Frequently asked questions