Kumquat Passion Potion

In my backyard, there is very small potted kumquat tree. It was one of my favorite wedding gifts, given to us by one of my favorite family members. In fifteen years, it has grown only a few inches, but the fruit it produces could fill a pick-up truck! So here’s my dilemma: what to do with all those kumquats? To be honest, they make my lips pucker, they are riddled with seeds (which are too numerous to spit and too bitter to swallow), and they are impossible to juice. So I came up with this tangy cocktail, which shows off the kumquat’s best features — uncommon citrus tang and a sunny glow. Mixed with passion fruit juice, orange juice and vodka, it’s a refreshing take on a classic Screwdriver. Double the recipe and you’ve got a pitcher. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute a half-cup of lemon-flavored or lime-flavored sparkling water for each ounce of vodka.

Serves 4

12 kumquats (about 1 cup), plus additional for garnish, halved

1 cup passion fruit juice (I like Xeres brand)

1/2 cup fresh orange juice

3/4 cup (6 ounces) Lemon Absolut (or other) vodka

Ice cubes

Fresh passion fruit seeds (if available) and mint leaves, for garnish

1. In a medium plastic container or cocktail shaker, muddle the kumquats to extract the juice. Add the passion fruit and orange juices and combine.

2. Strain the juice into 4 low-ball glasses filled with ice cubes. Add an ounce of vodka to each drink and stir. Garnish with kumquat halves, passion fruit seeds and mint leaves.

Make some delicious Strawberry Boba Tea.