Preserved Kumquats

Week or so ahead: Boil sugar and water together 5 minutes; cool. Meanwhile, wash kumquats; cut small cross in blossom (smooth) end of each. Place in cooled syrup. Cover; bring to boil; simmer 1 hour, or until clear. Do not remove cover at end of cooking time or fruit will shrink. Remove covered saucepan from heat; cool (with cover on) to room temperature.

Comments: Nice as a relish for poultry or meat. Or serve as dessert, with cheese and crackers or cookies. Or serve on vanilla ice cream.