By sainsbury's
Sweet Plums
What it is
These are fresh plums, a type of stone fruit known for their smooth skin and juicy flesh. They typically have a sweet or tart flavor profile depending on the variety and ripeness. Plums come in various colors, including red, purple, and yellow, and their flesh can range from deep red to golden. They are a good source of natural sweetness and have a pleasing texture when ripe.
How people cook with it
Plums are versatile fruits that can be enjoyed in many ways, both raw and cooked.
- Eaten fresh as a snack
- Added to fruit salads
- Baked into pies and tarts
- Cooked into jams and preserves
When ripe, plums can be eaten directly from the fruit. For baking, they are often halved, pitted, and sliced or diced. The natural sugars in plums caramelize when heated, enhancing their sweetness. They pair well with spices like cinnamon and ginger, and their tartness can balance rich desserts. They can also be simmered with a little sugar and water to create a simple compote or sauce, perfect for topping yogurt or pancakes. Their skins are edible and add a slight chewiness.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to peaches, plums have a smoother skin and a firmer flesh when ripe. Their flavor profile can also be more intensely tart or sweet. Unlike apricots, plums are generally larger and have a more distinct, rounded shape.
Who it is for
Home cooks and bakers who enjoy incorporating fresh fruit into their meals and desserts.
How to keep the rest
To keep the rest of your plums fresh, store them at room temperature until ripe. Once ripe, they can be refrigerated in a single layer to prevent bruising. They are best consumed within a few days of ripening for optimal flavor and texture.