Summertime Fresh
Summertime Fresh Pluots
What it is
Pluots are a hybrid fruit, a cross between a plum and an apricot. They typically have the smooth skin of a plum and the sweet, less tart flesh of an apricot. Their shape can vary, but they often resemble a plum. The flesh color can range from yellow to deep red, depending on the variety. This fruit offers a delightful combination of sweetness and a slight tang, making it a versatile choice for snacking and cooking.
How people cook with it
Pluots are enjoyed fresh as a healthy snack and can also be incorporated into various sweet and savory dishes.
- Snacking on fresh fruit
- Adding to fruit salads
- Baking in pies and tarts
- Grilling for a smoky sweetness
To prepare pluots, simply wash them under cool water. They can be eaten whole, skin and all, or peeled if preferred. For baking, they can be sliced or diced and added to pies, crumbles, or muffins. Grilling pluots brings out their natural sugars, creating a caramelized sweetness that pairs well with grilled meats or as a dessert topping. They also work well in chutneys or jams, offering a unique fruity flavor.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to plums, pluots are generally sweeter and less tart, with a flesh texture that can be softer. Apricots are typically smaller and have a fuzzier skin, whereas pluots have smooth skin like plums. The hybrid nature allows pluots to offer a unique flavor profile that is distinct from both parent fruits.
Who it is for
Home cooks and fruit enthusiasts who enjoy exploring unique and flavorful produce will appreciate pluots.
How to keep the rest
To store fresh pluots, keep them at room temperature until ripe. Once ripe, they can be refrigerated in a plastic bag or container for up to a week to slow down the ripening process. Avoid washing them until just before you plan to eat or use them.