Pigeon paste

Plum Paste - A Delicacy from the Heart of Autumn

I invite you to discover with me a delightful recipe, full of tradition and flavor - plum paste. This delicacy, carefully prepared from ripe plums, will take you back to the cool autumn days when nature offers us the richest and most aromatic fruits. Plums, also known by various regional names, are deep purple fruits with a sweet-tart flavor that transforms into a delicious paste perfect for pastries or simply as a treat.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars of 250 g

Necessary ingredients

- 2 kg ripe plums (make sure they have been touched by frost)
- 1 kg white sugar
- 250 ml white wine (optional, but adds a subtle fragrance)
- water (enough to cover the plums during cooking)

Necessary utensils

- A large pot
- Strainer
- Wooden spoon
- Glass jars with airtight lids
- Blender or fruit masher (optional)

Preparing the plums

The first step in making plum paste is to gather and prepare the fruits. Carefully select plums that have been affected by frost, as these are the most flavorful and nutrient-rich. After collecting about 2 kg, remove the stems and wash them in several cold waters. It is essential to ensure they are clean so that your paste has a pure and pleasant taste.

Cooking the plums

Once you have prepared the fruits, place them in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring them to a boil. Let them boil for 15-20 minutes from the first boil until they begin to soften and release their juice. This will not only intensify the flavor, but will also facilitate the mashing process.

Draining the juice

After the fruits have boiled, take a strainer and drain the juice released by the plums. Use a wooden spoon to press the fruits so that you obtain a fine pulp. This is the moment when you will notice that the skins and pits remain in the strainer, which is perfect, as we want a smooth paste.

Preparing the paste

Once you have obtained the plum pulp, add a cup of the drained juice and the two cups of white wine. Boil the mixture on low heat for 30 minutes. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. When the mixture begins to thicken and acquire a consistency similar to thicker cream, it is time to add the sugar.

Finalizing the paste

Gently mix the sugar into the mixture, continuing to simmer on low heat. This will enhance the sweetness of your plum paste. After about 10-15 minutes, the paste should be ready. Once it reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat.

Preserving the paste

Pour the hot paste into sterilized glass jars, ensuring they are airtight. This will allow the paste to be preserved for a longer time, giving you the pleasure of enjoying the taste of autumn even in the cold months. I advise you to keep the jars in a cool, dark place to maintain their freshness.

Serving suggestions

Plum paste is extremely versatile. You can use it for pastries, tarts, or as a filling for pancakes. It is also delicious served simply, alongside crispy cookies or on a slice of toasted bread. And don't forget, a spoonful of this paste added to yogurt will turn your breakfast into a true feast.

Variations and useful tips

If you want to experiment, you can add spices such as cinnamon or cloves to give your paste an even richer flavor. You can also try using brown sugar or honey instead of white sugar for a more natural sweetness.

Nutritional benefits

Plums are an excellent source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and tannins, which help support the immune system. Regular consumption of plum paste can bring significant benefits for those looking to improve digestive health and regulate the menstrual cycle.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen plums?
Yes, it is an excellent option. Make sure to fully thaw them before using.

2. What should I do with the leftover syrup after straining?
You can boil it with sugar or honey until it becomes a thick syrup, perfect for sweetening drinks or as a topping for pancakes.

3. How long does plum paste last?
If stored in airtight jars and in a cool place, it can last up to a year.

I hope this plum paste recipe brings you not only joy in the kitchen but also delicious moments with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!