Pigeon paste

Plum Paste - An Autumn-Flavored Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 5 jars of 400 g

Who hasn't had the chance to enjoy the sweet and tangy taste of fruit pastes? Plum paste, with its velvety texture and intense aroma, is a traditional recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia to every jar. This delicacy is perfect for use in cakes, but can also be served plain alongside crunchy biscuits or mixed into creamy yogurts. Whether you use it to sweeten coffee or as a filling for pastries, plum paste will turn any moment into a celebration.

Ingredients

- Approximately 2 kg of ripe plums (make sure they have been touched by frost for a more intense flavor)
- 1 kg of sugar
- 2 glasses of white wine (preferably sweet or semi-sweet)
- A small cup of drained juice (to enhance the flavor)

Necessary utensils

- A large pot for boiling
- Fine mesh strainer
- Wooden spoon
- Airtight glass jars (must be sterilized)

Brief history

Plum paste is a recipe that combines tradition and innovation, made from a fruit that has been valued since ancient times. Plums are fruits that grow on trees and have a fascinating history, being used in both gastronomy and folk medicine. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, each variation having a personal touch.

Step by step

1. Preparing the plums: Start by removing the stems from the plums, being careful not to damage the fruit. Wash them well in several cold waters to remove any impurities.

2. Boiling the plums: Cover the plums with water in a large pot and bring them to a boil. Let them boil for 15-20 minutes until they become soft. This step is essential for obtaining a fine paste.

3. Straining: After boiling, drain the plums, then mash them (or press them) with a spoon in a fine mesh strainer (a maripana strainer is ideal). This process will separate the pulp from the skins and pits, leaving you with only the aromatic pulp.

4. Preparing the paste: In the obtained pulp, add a small cup of the drained juice and the two glasses of white wine. Place the mixture over low heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Adding the sugar: After 30 minutes, add the sugar to the mixture and stir gently. Continue to simmer over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens to a consistency similar to that of thicker sour cream.

6. Bottling: Once the paste has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and pour it hot into the sterilized glass jars. Make sure the jars are airtight to preserve the aroma and freshness.

7. Preparing the syrup (optional): Don't forget about the leftover juice after straining! Add sugar or honey to the remaining juice and boil it until you get a thick syrup. This can be stored separately in airtight bottles and used as a topping for pancakes or ice cream.

Chef's tip

To achieve an even more intense plum paste flavor, let the plums sit in cold water for a few hours before boiling them. You can also add a teaspoon of lemon juice to balance the sweetness and add a touch of freshness.

Frequently asked questions

1. How can I use plum paste?
Plum paste is extremely versatile! It can be used as a filling for cakes or tarts, served with biscuits or toast, or mixed into yogurts and smoothies.

2. Can plum paste be frozen?
Yes, plum paste can be frozen! Make sure to place it in airtight containers to protect it from freezer burn.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of plums?
Plums are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and contain antioxidants that contribute to overall health. Consuming plum paste can add extra nutrients to your diet.

Possible variations

If you want to add a touch of originality to your plum paste, you can experiment with various flavors. One idea is to add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract during boiling. You can also use red wine instead of white wine for a deeper flavor.

Serving and combinations

Plum paste pairs perfectly with a variety of desserts and drinks. Offer it as a topping for ice cream or pancakes, alongside a fragrant tea or aromatic coffee. It can also be a surprising ingredient in cocktails, adding a touch of sweetness.

Enjoy making this traditional recipe and don't forget to share the plum paste with your loved ones! Bon appétit!