Summer's bounty brings an abundance of juicy plums, ripe for the picking and perfect for transforming into a delightful homemade syrup. This versatile ingredient transcends the ordinary, offering a unique sweetness that elevates everything from cocktails and sodas to pancakes and desserts. Imagine the rich, deep flavour of ripe plums infused into a luscious syrup, ready to add a touch of summer magic to your culinary creations. Forget the artificial sweeteners and preservatives; this recipe utilizes nature's goodness to deliver a healthy and delicious treat. The vibrant colour alone is an invitation to indulge.
Forget the store-bought options loaded with additives – making your own plum syrup is easier than you think! This recipe provides a simple, step-by-step guide to crafting a homemade plum syrup that's both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple to prepare, using just a few readily available ingredients. Let's dive into the process and discover the sweet rewards of homemade plum syrup.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Knife
- Container for marinating
Ingredients
- Plums: 1 kg
- Salt
- Sugar: 500g (or 600g if plums are sour)
- Ginger (optional): a little, crushed
- Vanilla extract (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Plums
- Wash and clean the plums thoroughly. Soak in salt water if desired .
- Cut the plums into halves or smaller pieces .
- Boil the plums in salted water for 3 minutes. This helps remove some bitterness .
- Rinse the boiled plums with water and drain .
Step 2. Macerate the Plums
- Mix half of the sugar with the plums, then add the remaining sugar on top .
- Marinate the plums overnight, stirring occasionally to speed up the process .
Step 3. Cook the Plum Syrup
- Transfer the marinated plums into a pot .
- Cook over medium heat until the plums boil, then reduce heat and simmer for another 30 minutes . Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking .
- The syrup will darken and thicken. Cook for a total of 40 minutes .
- Add crushed ginger or vanilla extract for extra flavor .
Step 4. Cool and Store
- Remove from heat and let cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the syrup into a jar, and store in the refrigerator .
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sourness of your plums.
- Stir occasionally while marinating to ensure the sugar dissolves evenly.
- If you prefer a chewier texture, remove the plums from the syrup and enjoy them separately.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. How long will my homemade plum syrup last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, your plum syrup should last for 2-3 weeks. Make sure the jar is tightly sealed.
2. Can I use frozen plums to make the syrup?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using them in the recipe.
Making your own plum syrup is a rewarding experience, resulting in a delicious and versatile ingredient you can enjoy all summer long. From sophisticated cocktails to simple morning pancakes, the possibilities are endless. So grab those ripe plums and get started on creating your own batch of this refreshing summer treat!