1Put the kumquats into a large saucepan and cover with water.
2Bring to a boil, remove from the heat and drain well.
3Cover with fresh water, bring to the boil and drain again.
4Cover with water a third time, bring to a boil and simmer until soft but not mushy.
5Drain well and tip into sterilized jars.
6Dissolve the sugar in a cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove the syrup from the heat, allow to cool a little, and pour over the kumquats.
7Top each jar with a few tablespoons of your chosen spirit.
8Seal the jars and the mixture to mature for 6 weeks.
9Makes 1.5 liters.
Hint:
1Warmed sugar added to jams dissolves more quickly.
2To warm sugar, spread it on a large tray and place it in a moderate oven (180 C/ 350 F) for 10 minutes.