Kumquat Mojitos

By now you have probably either seen or heard of these nuggets of citrus that only show up in the market around these winter months. They look like mini limes but are orange. You look at them, star at the price and wonder, what's the big deal? Well, they are just fun nuggets of citrus you can eat WHOLE. Yes whole. That's one of the things I love about this recipe. You can eat your way through the garnishes. I mean that's what they are for right?!?!

We all are aware that citrus flavored anything is my favorite. So, combine a fun seasonal treat, citrus rum and a refreshing cocktail together and well it's no surprise this is a great treat I was going to make for myself. 

The recipe calls for citrus rum, and I highly suggest it. Reason being, a good citrus rum makes the whole thing a little sweeter. Beyond my connections to St. Croix and the Cruzan Rum factory being one of our favorite tourist stops on the island, their flavored rums are light and delightful.  If you can't find my favorite (Key Lime, try the Citrus). Make sure you find some if you like citrus. 

Fresh Kumquat Mojitos

Ingredients

• 10-15 mint leaves
• 1 tsp cane sugar
• 2 oz citrus rum (cruzan rum is my fav)
• club soda or seltzer water
• 5-6 kumquats

INSTRUCTIONS

First clean and remove little stem from kumquats. Slice your kumquats, you should get about 3-4 slices per including the tops and bottoms. The skin is where all the flavor is so don't toss those. Add them to the bottom of the glass.

Then clean your mint leaves, remove them from any stem and place in glass with kumquats. Add the sugar and then muddle. I like this drier muddle because the kumquats need to release their juices, this helps. 

Add your ice, then rum and top with club soda! For a stronger drink, just use a smaller glass and therefore less club soda.