What To Know
- The UK summer is a fleeting treasure, and with it comes a bounty of delicious fruits, including the luscious plum.
- Freezing allows you to stock up on plums when they are in season and at their peak, saving money in the long run.
- Use a blender or food processor to puree the cooked plums, then strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or skins.
The UK summer is a fleeting treasure, and with it comes a bounty of delicious fruits, including the luscious plum. But what happens when you have more plums than you can eat? Can you freeze plums in the UK? Absolutely! Freezing plums is a fantastic way to preserve their flavour and enjoy them long after the season has passed.
Why Freeze Plums?
Freezing plums offers several advantages:
- Preserve Freshness: Freezing locks in the flavour and texture of ripe plums, preventing them from spoiling.
- Extend Enjoyment: Enjoy the taste of summer plums even during the colder months.
- Convenience: Frozen plums are ready to use in recipes, saving you time and effort.
- Cost-Effective: Freezing allows you to stock up on plums when they are in season and at their peak, saving money in the long run.
Choosing the Right Plums for Freezing
Not all plums are created equal, and some varieties freeze better than others. Here’s what to look for:
- Ripeness: Choose plums that are ripe but firm. Avoid overripe plums as they tend to become mushy when frozen.
- Variety: Plums with a higher sugar content, like Victoria plums, freeze well.
- Freshness: Select plums that are free from bruises or blemishes.
How to Freeze Plums: A Step-by-Step Guide
Freezing plums is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps:
1. Wash and Prepare: Wash the plums thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves.
2. Pit and Slice: Cut the plums in half and remove the pits. You can slice them into smaller pieces if desired.
3. Blanch (Optional): Blanching plums for a few minutes before freezing helps preserve their colour and texture. To blanch, submerge the plums in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge them into ice water.
4. Pack and Freeze: Place the prepared plums in freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
5. Label and Date: Label the bags or containers with the date and type of plums.
6. Freeze: Place the bags or containers in the freezer and freeze for up to 12 months.
Tips for Using Frozen Plums
Frozen plums can be used in a variety of recipes, including:
- Smoothies: Blend frozen plums with other fruits, yogurt, and milk for a refreshing and healthy smoothie.
- Jams and Preserves: Use frozen plums to make delicious jams and preserves that can be enjoyed year-round.
- Cakes and Pies: Incorporate frozen plums into cakes, pies, and other baked goods for a burst of flavour and sweetness.
- Sauces and Compotes: Create flavorful sauces and compotes using frozen plums to complement dishes like pork, chicken, and yogurt.
Freezing Plum Jam
If you’re looking for a convenient way to preserve your plums, freezing plum jam is a great option. Here’s how to do it:
1. Prepare the Jam: Follow your favourite plum jam recipe, making sure to cook the jam thoroughly to ensure proper preservation.
2. Cool and Portion: Allow the jam to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers.
3. Label and Freeze: Label the containers with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 12 months.
Freezing Plum Puree
Plum puree is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes. Here’s how to freeze it:
1. Cook the Plums: Cook the plums with a small amount of water until soft.
2. Puree and Strain: Use a blender or food processor to puree the cooked plums, then strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds or skins.
3. Freeze: Pour the puree into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion.
4. Label and Freeze: Label the containers with the date and contents, then freeze for up to 12 months.
Thawing and Using Frozen Plums
Frozen plums can be thawed in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, they can be used in recipes as needed.
Note: Frozen plums will have a softer texture than fresh plums. However, they will still retain their flavour and can be used in most recipes.
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Bounty of Plums
Freezing plums is a simple and effective way to enjoy the taste of summer long after the season has passed. By following these tips, you can preserve the sweetness and flavour of your favourite plums and enjoy them year-round.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I freeze plums with the pits?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze plums with the pits. The pits can release a bitter flavour and may also cause the plums to become discoloured.
Q: How long can I keep frozen plums?
A: Frozen plums can be stored in the freezer for up to 12 months. However, for optimal quality, it’s best to use them within 6-8 months.
Q: Can I freeze plums that have been damaged?
A: It’s best to avoid freezing plums that have been damaged. Damaged plums may spoil more quickly and can affect the flavour of the other plums in the freezer.
Q: Can I freeze plum jam without cooking it?
A: It’s not recommended to freeze plum jam without cooking it. Raw jam may not be safe to eat and could spoil more quickly.
Q: Can I freeze plum puree without straining it?
A: While you can freeze plum puree without straining it, straining it will remove any seeds or skins, resulting in a smoother and more consistent texture.
