Contents :
- Plum preserves
- Plum desserts
- Dinner dishes with plums
- Chicken with plums and cinnamon
- Pork loin with plums and caramelized ginger
- Salad with grilled cheese and plums
- Rice with chicken and plums in curry sauce
- Pierogi with plums
- Health benefits of plums
- Summary
The end of August is approaching, which means plum season is in full swing ! They're one of the most popular and delicious seasonal fruits. They can be eaten raw, dried, cooked, baked, fried, frozen, and processed into preserves. It's worth taking advantage of this opportunity to stock your pantry with these delicious and healthy fruits.
In this article, I'll present you with a few interesting plum recipes that will surely surprise you with their flavor and aroma. Whether you prefer sweet or savory dishes, you'll find something for yourself here. I invite you to discover the world of plums! 😊
Plum preserves
Plum season may be short, but thanks to preserves, we can enjoy their flavor year-round. Plum preserves are not only a delicious addition to dishes and desserts, but also a good source of vitamins and minerals that will supplement our diet on colder days. Here are some ideas for healthy plum preserves that will allow us to enjoy the fruit until next summer.
Plum jam
This classic plum preserve is very thick and aromatic. It can be enjoyed on sandwiches, cakes, pancakes, or as a side dish with meat. Made from plums alone, with no added sugar, it's low-calorie and natural.
Plum jam without added sugar 310 g - Krokus
To make plum jam, all you need are plums (preferably Hungarian plums), a large pot, and a little patience. Wash the plums, pit them, cut them in half, and simmer for several hours, stirring occasionally. The jam is ready when it's dark brown and easily separates from the spoon.
Plum jam
This is a different way to prepare a sweet plum preserve. It's less dense than jam and contains sugar, which extends its shelf life . The jam can be flavored with lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, or vanilla for additional flavor. It goes well with bread, yogurt, cheese, or muesli. A great idea is to add plum jam and natural chocolate to pancakes. A true feast for the palate!
To make the jam, you'll need plums, sugar, and lemon juice . Wash, pit, and chop the plums. Then, combine them with the sugar and lemon juice and simmer over low heat for about 20 minutes, until they reach the desired consistency.
Plum compote
This delicious fruit drink can be enjoyed both hot and cold. Plum compote has refreshing and hydrating properties. It can also be used to help treat a cold or sore throat.
Compote can be made with raw or dried plums. You can also add other fruits, such as apples, pears, or apricots. Adding cinnamon and cloves will enhance its flavor.
To make the compote, you'll need plums (fresh or dried), water, and sugar. Wash the plums (or soak them if dried) and place them in a pot with the water and sugar. Then, bring the compote to a boil and simmer for about 15 minutes (or longer if dried).
Plum chutney
Chutney is a delicious and aromatic sauce that goes perfectly with meat, cheese and oriental dishes.
To make plum chutney, simply dice the plums, add onion, spices (e.g., ginger, cinnamon, cloves), and vinegar or lemon juice. Cook until softened and the sauce thickens. It's a delicious accompaniment to roasts, grilled dishes, and couscous.
Plum tincture
This aromatic spirit has a beautiful ruby color. This plum tincture has warming properties and improves digestion. It can also be given as a gift to loved ones or guests.
The tincture can be made with various varieties of plums, but sweet and juicy ones work best. You can also add spices like cinnamon, cloves, vanilla, or ginger.
To make the tincture, you'll need plums, rubbing alcohol, and sugar. Wash, pit, and chop the plums. Then, place them in a large jar, pour in the rubbing alcohol, and add the sugar. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for about two months, stirring the contents weekly.
Plum desserts
Plum desserts are the perfect sweet ending to a meal or for afternoon tea. Plums have a delicate and aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with cakes, ice cream, creams, and jellies. Here are some ideas for unique plum desserts.
Plum cake
Plum cake is a real hit that will delight not only those with a sweet tooth. Bake it on a shortcrust pastry or sponge cake base, and top with sliced plums. Drizzle with lemon juice, sprinkle with cinnamon, and bake until the fruit is soft and the cake is golden brown. It's a perfect dessert for chilly evenings—especially delicious with a dollop of whipped cream.
Yeast cake with plums
If you're a fan of traditional yeast dough, plums will be a perfect addition. Use them as a filling – sliced plums, a pinch of cinnamon and sugar, and, if you like, chopped organic nuts or almonds. You can use organic wheat flour to make the dough – the result will be amazing!
Plum crumble
Crumble is an interesting combination of crispness and juiciness. Prepare a crumble topping with flour, butter, sugar, and cinnamon, and arrange sliced plums in the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle with the crumble topping and bake until the top is golden brown and the fruit is soft. Plum crumble is a perfect idea for a rustic dessert—it tastes delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Plum ice cream
This is a simple and refreshing dessert you can make at home without an ice cream maker. Plum ice cream has an intense color and flavor, as well as a creamy consistency.
To make plum ice cream, all you need are plums, sugar, and plain yogurt. Wash, pit, and chop the plums. Then blend them with the sugar and yogurt until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a container and freeze for a few hours, stirring occasionally.
Plums in yogurt
If you're a fan of light and simple desserts, plums in yogurt might be just the thing. Dice the plums and add them to plain yogurt. You can also sprinkle the whole thing with nuts, organic almond flakes, or your favorite muesli. This dessert is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings without sacrificing any nutritional value.
Dinner dishes with plums
Plum dinners are an unusual yet delicious way to diversify your menu. Plums pair perfectly with meat, fish, organic pasta , groats, and vegetables. They impart a sweet and sour flavor that contrasts with savory ingredients.
Chicken with plums and cinnamon
Chicken is a versatile ingredient that perfectly complements the flavor of plums. Cut the plums in half and then fry them in a pan, adding a little cinnamon and natural honey . In the same pan, fry the chicken fillets, then make a plum and cinnamon sauce, then pour it over the meat.
Pork loin with plums and caramelized ginger
Pork loin is an excellent base for creating a variety of dishes. Caramelize sliced plums in a pan with ginger and honey. Fry the pork loin separately, then add the plums. Drizzle with lemon juice to cut the sweetness of the fruit. This dish is a sophisticated combination of sweet, spicy, and meaty flavors.
Salad with grilled cheese and plums
Sometimes dinner can be light and refreshing. Prepare a salad with grilled cheese, lettuce, nuts, and, of course, plums. The vibrant flavor of the sweet fruit and the delicate cheese complement each other perfectly. Drizzle with a vinaigrette or honey-mustard dressing.
Rice with chicken and plums in curry sauce
If you enjoy oriental flavors, this recipe is for you. Sauté sliced plums and chicken pieces in a pan, then add the aromatic curry sauce. Serve this dish with rice—the aromatic basmati rice will perfectly enhance the intense flavor. This dish will transport you on a culinary journey to Asia.
Pierogi with plums
This traditional Polish dish can be served as a dessert or a main course. Fill the pierogi with sliced plums, add a pinch of sugar and cinnamon, and then seal the edges tightly. Cook the pierogi in a pot of salted boiling water until they float to the surface.
Health benefits of plums
Plums are not only delicious and juicy fruits, but also a true treasure trove of health benefits. They have numerous health benefits resulting from their nutritional composition and high antioxidant potential.
Read about the benefits of eating plums for your body:
- Prunes improve digestion and prevent constipation . Prunes are high in fiber, which regulates bowel function and facilitates bowel movements. They also contain sorbic acid and sorbitol, which have a laxative effect. Dried plums are particularly rich in fiber (approximately 9.5 g per 100 g) and are therefore often used as a home remedy for constipation.
- Plums protect against free radicals . Plums are a source of numerous antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, polyphenols, catechins, and chlorogenic acid. Antioxidants neutralize the effects of free radicals, which damage cells and DNA and contribute to aging and the development of disease.
- Plums lower cholesterol and blood pressure . Plums contain pectin, which binds cholesterol in the intestines and prevents its absorption into the bloodstream. They also contain potassium, which regulates blood pressure and prevents hypertension. Therefore, they help prevent atherosclerosis and heart disease.
- Plums strengthen the immune system and improve mood . Plums are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for proper immune system function and protection against infections. Vitamin C also supports the synthesis of serotonin, a hormone responsible for well-being and mood. Furthermore, plums contain B vitamins, which support the nervous system and help combat stress.
In short, even the most common plums offer a wealth of health benefits. Their abundance of fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients makes them an excellent choice for those seeking to improve their health and well-being.
Summary
The season for these juicy fruits offers an opportunity to discover a wealth of unique flavors and aromas. From breakfast to dinner, to extraordinary desserts, plums can transform everyday meals into culinary experiences.
Plum preserves allow us to enjoy these fruits year-round. Dried plums, jam, chutney, or compote—each preserve brings unique flavors, aromas, and health benefits that enrich our menus and brighten up colder days.
There's no shortage of sweet dishes either. Cakes, yeast cakes, crumbles, or pierogi—any of these dishes can become the star of the dessert menu. By combining plums with culinary creativity, we can create flavorful masterpieces.
Let's not forget about the health benefits of plums. Their high fiber content supports our digestive tract, antioxidants protect us from oxidative stress, and regulating blood sugar levels affects our overall health. This fruit not only tempts with its taste but also provides nutritional value.
I hope you found this article interesting and useful. I encourage you to try these ideas and experiment in the kitchen 😊
