Vietnamese people use kumquats extensively for refreshing drinks like Tra Tac (kumquat tea), preserving them in honey or sugar for coughs and digestion, and especially as symbolic decorations for the Lunar New Year (Tet) to bring prosperity, often candied as a delicacy, making them central to both culinary and cultural traditions.
Beverages & Treats
- Kumquat Tea (Tra Tac): A popular drink, especially in the south, mixing fresh kumquat juice/pulp with green tea, sugar, and ice; sometimes with salted plums (xi muoi) for extra flavor.
- Syrups & Preserves: Kumquats are candied (preserved with sugar) or soaked in honey/rock sugar to make syrups, excellent for soothing coughs, aiding digestion, and enjoying with tea.
- Sauces: They are used to create sweet and sour sauces for grilled meats, seafood, and fried snacks, adding a unique citrus zest.
Medicinal Uses (Traditional)
- Cough & Sore Throat: Steaming kumquats with rock sugar or honey is a common folk remedy for persistent coughs and sore throats.
- Digestion: Eating the peel or seeds can help with bloating, indigestion, and stimulating appetite.
Cultural Significance (Tet Holiday)
- Symbol of Prosperity: A kumquat tree laden with golden fruit is a crucial Tet decoration, symbolizing wealth, fertility, and good fortune for the new year.
- Home Decoration: Families buy or grow ornate kumquat trees to display in their living rooms, adding vibrant color and good luck.
Important Note on Decorative Trees
- Be cautious with ornamental kumquats sold for Tet, as growers often use pesticides or chemicals to enhance appearance, making them unsafe for consumption unless you know they are pesticide-free.
Safimex has supplying Fresh kumquat fruit with a good price for bulk order. If you are interested in this product, please feel free to contact us at info@safimex.com or click at https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Organic-Vietnamese-Fresh-Kumquats-for-Detoxifying_10000014388274.html?spm=a2700.shop_plser.41413.2.f62174c0FHoNNF
SAFIMEX JOINT STOCK COMPANY
Head Office: 216/20a Duong Ba Trac Street, Ward 2, District 8, Hochiminh City, Vietnam.
Tel: (+84)-(28)-3636 2388 | (+84)-(28)-3636 2399 | Website: https://safimex.com/
