FROM THE FROZEN RAW FRUITS CATEGORY - PLUMS

Frozen Plums: A Treasure of Flavors for Winter

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Freezing Time: 24 hours
Total: 24 hours 30 minutes
Number of Servings: Depends on individual consumption

Freezing fruits is one of the safest and healthiest methods of preservation, and plums are a perfect example of bringing delicious flavors to your plate, even in the middle of winter. These fruits, with their juicy flesh and sweet-tart taste, become a true treasure in the kitchen, offering you limitless possibilities for dessert preparation. In this recipe, I will show you how to prepare plums for freezing, so you can enjoy them year-round.

Necessary Ingredients:
- 2 kg plums (preferably yellow or red, ripe and firm)
- Freezer bags or plastic containers

A Bit of History:
Plums have been cultivated for thousands of years, appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. These fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them an excellent choice for a healthy lifestyle. Freezing them is a great method to preserve their flavor, so you can use them in various dishes, from cakes to delicious liqueurs.

Step-by-Step Freezing:

1. Choosing and Preparing the Plums:
Start by selecting the plums. Choose ripe but firm fruits with a deep yellow or red color. They will taste better after freezing. Wash the plums with cold water to remove any impurities or pesticides.

2. Cleaning the Plums:
After washing the plums, dry them with a kitchen towel. Then, cut each plum in half and remove the pits. If the plums are very large, you can cut them into quarters. This step is essential, as the pits can affect the texture and taste of the frozen plums.

3. Packaging for Freezing:
Place the halves or quarters of plums in freezer bags or plastic containers. Make sure to package them in portions that can be consumed in one use, to avoid thawing and refreezing.

4. Adding Flavors (optional):
If you want to add a flavor note, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon or cloves over the plums before packaging them. This will add a special flavor when you use them in cakes or compotes.

5. Freezing:
Place the bags or containers in the freezer, ensuring they are positioned in a spot where they won’t be compressed. The plums will be ready to use after 24 hours.

Useful Tips:
- Make sure the plums are completely dry before freezing to prevent ice crystal formation.
- Label the bags or containers with the freezing date so you know how long they have been in the freezer.

Nutritional Benefits:
Plums are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and fiber. Eating plums can help improve digestion and maintain heart health. They also contain antioxidants that help protect the body from free radicals.

Possible Variations:
- You can combine frozen plums with other fruits, such as peaches or apples, to make a delicious fruit compote.
- Use frozen plums in tart preparation, adding a layer of flaky pastry and a sweet cheese filling for an elegant dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I freeze plums without cleaning them?
While it is possible, removing the pits and cutting the plums improves the texture and taste after thawing.

2. How long can I keep frozen plums?
Generally, frozen plums can be kept for 6-12 months. Although they can still be consumable after this period, quality and taste may decrease.

3. How can I use frozen plums?
Frozen plums are excellent for making cakes, compotes, sauces, or even in smoothies. You can use them directly from the freezer without thawing.

Serving Suggestions:
After thawing the plums, you can use them in a warm compote served with a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream for a simple and delicious dessert. Additionally, a plum tart can be an impressive dessert for a family meal or a gathering with friends.

I wish you much success in freezing plums and using them in your dishes. Bringing fruity flavors to your plate, even on the coldest days, is a true joy!