Plums are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They can be eaten fresh, cooked into jams and jellies, or used to make pies and other desserts. However, plums do not have a very long shelf life, and they can spoil quickly if not handled properly. In this article, we will discuss how to properly preserve plums so that they can be enjoyed for weeks or even months after they are picked.
Harvesting Plums
The first step in preserving plums is to harvest them at the right time. Plums should be picked when they are fully ripe but not overly soft. Ripe plums will have a slightly soft texture and a sweet aroma. They should also have a vibrant color and a smooth skin. If the plums are still hard, they are not yet ripe and will not be as flavorful. If the plums are too soft, they may be overripe and prone to spoilage.
Cleaning and Sorting Plums
Once the plums have been harvested, they should be cleaned and sorted. This involves removing any debris or leaves that may be attached to the plums. Plums should then be sorted based on their ripeness and quality. Any plums that are bruised or damaged should be set aside for immediate use or discarded. Plums that are slightly underripe can be set aside to ripen further, while those that are ripe can be used for preserving.
Preserving Plums by Freezing
Freezing is one of the best ways to preserve plums because it locks in their flavor and nutrients. To freeze plums, first wash them thoroughly and remove any stems or debris. Then, cut the plums in half and remove the pits. You can also slice the plums into wedges or leave them whole if desired. Next, arrange the plums on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer for several hours until frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer the plums to a freezer-safe container or bag and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Preserving Plums by Canning
Canning is another popular method for preserving plums, and it can be done using either a hot water bath or a pressure canner. To can plums, first wash them thoroughly and remove any stems or debris. Then, slice the plums in half and remove the pits. You can also leave the plums whole if desired. Next, prepare a simple syrup by mixing equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan and heating until the sugar is dissolved. Pack the plums tightly into sterilized jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. Pour the hot syrup over the plums, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jars, and then wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth. Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands. Process the jars in a hot water bath or pressure canner according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Preserving Plums by Drying
Drying is another method for preserving plums, and it is a great way to create a healthy and delicious snack. To dry plums, first wash them thoroughly and remove any stems or debris. Then, slice the plums in half and remove the pits. You can also leave the plums whole if desired. Next, place the plums on a dehydrator tray in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Set the dehydrator to 135°F and dry the plums for 10-12 hours, or until they are dry but still slightly pliable. Once dry, store the plums in an airtight container or bag in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Conclusion
Plums are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. By using the methods outlined in this article, you can preserve plums for later use and enjoy their sweet and tangy flavor long after they have been harvested. Whether you choose to freeze, can, or dry your plums, you can rest assured that they will be a delicious addition to any meal or snack.