The Lush Chef

We're blessed to still have access to some really great winter fruit out here in SoCal, but most of you are suffering from negative zero temperatures and only citrus to choose from.  This Ginger-Kumquat Smash from The Kitchn uses ingredients that most of you can get access to at your local grocery store during this time of year.  Mix in a dark, spiced rum, and you'll feel like you're on some sandy beach in Jamaica.  I made some modifications to the original recipe, as I felt it was too gingery and not boozy or sweet enough for my taste.  My version is below.  And oh, because bitters make everything better, you can even add a few dashes of orange bitters as well!

Ginger-Kumquat Smash
Ingredients:

• 2 kumquats, sliced in half with seeds removed
• 1 tsp brown sugar (or agave syrup, if you're trying to be a little healthier)
• 1/3 tsp freshly grated ginger & juice
• 3 oz dark rum (I used Crusoe Organic Spiced Rum)
• Club soda, to taste
• 2 dashes orange bitters (optional, I used my homemade ones)

- In a small glass, muddle the kumquats with the brown sugar.
- Add the ginger, rum, and orange bitters (optional), along with a couple of ice cubes and stir.
- Add some club soda, to taste.