5 Delicious Plum Recipes You Have to Try

Exploring the Sweet and Tangy World of Plums

Plums, with their versatile flavor profile that balances sweet and tart, have been a kitchen staple for centuries. In this article, we’ll explore 5 delicious plum recipes that not only showcase the delectable nature of plums but also provide a range of culinary adventures from desserts to savory dishes.

Plum and Ginger Chutney

Start your journey with something that’s both sweet and a bit spicy - Plum and Ginger Chutney. This chutney is not only a fantastic addition to any cheese board but also makes a delicious glaze for meats:

• 3 cups of ripe plums, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup sugar
• ¹⁄₄ cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon finely grated ginger
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon ground allspice
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a heavy-bottomed pot.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the plums are broken down and the mixture thickens - roughly 45-50 minutes.
3. Let it cool, then jar or store in the refrigerator.

🍯 Note: This chutney pairs wonderfully with roast pork or turkey.

Plum Crumble

Nothing says comfort like a Plum Crumble. It’s simple, warm, and an excellent way to turn seasonal fruit into a crowd-pleaser:

• 8 ripe plums, pitted and sliced
• ¹⁄₃ cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¹⁄₃ cup brown sugar
• ¹⁄₂ cup cold butter, cubed
• ¹⁄₂ cup rolled oats

Instructions:

1. Toss plums with white sugar and cinnamon, place in a baking dish.
2. In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, butter, and oats until crumbly.
3. Spread the crumble topping over the plums.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes until golden.

Plum Salsa

Sway towards something refreshing with Plum Salsa. It’s an unusual yet delightful salsa that you can serve with grilled fish or as a dip:

• 4 plums, finely chopped
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 lime, juiced
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon sugar (optional for balance)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Let sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Plum and Honey Grilled Chicken

Now, let’s turn to savory with a Plum and Honey Grilled Chicken that’s both sweet and savory:

• 4 chicken breasts, skinless
• 3 plums, pitted and sliced
• ¹⁄₄ cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in half of the honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and rosemary for at least 2 hours.
2. Grill chicken, basting with remaining marinade.
3. Grill plum slices until they have grill marks.
4. Serve chicken topped with grilled plums.

🍗 Note: This dish pairs well with a side of grilled vegetables or rice pilaf.

Plum Upside-Down Cake

End your plum culinary journey with a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is tasty: Plum Upside-Down Cake. This cake not only looks impressive but tastes divine:

• ¹⁄₂ cup butter
• ³⁄₄ cup brown sugar
• 10-12 ripe plums, halved and pitted
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt
• ¹⁄₂ cup milk

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a 9-inch cake pan, sprinkle brown sugar evenly over it, and arrange plum halves cut side down.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together sugar and eggs until fluffy.
3. Add flour, baking powder, salt, and milk alternately, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
4. Pour batter over plums in the pan.
5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool slightly, then invert onto a plate.

Summing up, these five plum recipes offer a delightful array of flavors and textures, proving the versatility of this fruit. From the sharp zing of chutney to the comforting sweetness of crumble and cake, plums truly are a culinary marvel. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking to explore new kitchen creations, these dishes are sure to impress and indulge your taste buds with the magic of plums.

Can I use frozen plums for these recipes?

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Yes, you can use frozen plums, but thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture. For best results, try to use them in recipes where the texture is less critical, like in chutneys or sauces.

What substitutes can I use if I can’t find plums?

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In recipes calling for plums, you can substitute with apricots, peaches, or even nectarines for a similar flavor profile. For the Plum Salsa, consider using mango or pineapple for a different but equally fresh taste.

How long can I store homemade chutney?

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Chutney can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 months if kept in a clean, airtight jar. For longer storage, consider canning it properly.