Prunes are plums that have been dehydrated for preservation purposes. Sometimes called dried plums, prunes are deep red-brown with a chewy texture and a savory-sweet flavor. Unlike fresh plums, prunes can last in your pantry for about six months.
Dried plums, commonly known as prunes, are a delicious and nutritious fruit that has been enjoyed for centuries. They are made from specific varieties of plums, primarily the European plum (Prunus domestica), which are dried to preserve their natural sweetness and flavor.
Appearance and Texture
Prunes are typically dark purple to black in color, with a wrinkled, smooth skin. Their chewy texture makes them a satisfying snack. When you bite into a prune, you'll find it tender yet firm, offering a delightful contrast to their rich, sweet taste.
Flavor Profile
The flavor of dried plums is intensely sweet with subtle hints of tartness. This unique combination makes them a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. They can be enjoyed on their own, added to baked goods, or used in salads and stews to impart a natural sweetness.
Nutritional Benefits
Prunes are not only tasty but also packed with health benefits. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes gut health. Additionally, prunes are rich in vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin K, and antioxidants. They are particularly well-known for their natural laxative properties, making them a popular choice for those seeking digestive support.
Culinary Uses
In the kitchen, prunes can be used in various ways:
- **Snacking**: Enjoy them straight out of the package for a quick energy boost.
- **Baking**: Incorporate chopped prunes into muffins, cakes, or cookies for added moisture and sweetness.
- **Cooking**: Add them to savory dishes like stews or tagines for a rich flavor contrast.
- **Smoothies**: Blend them into smoothies for a nutritious kick.
Conclusion
Dried plums are not just a sweet treat; they are a powerhouse of nutrition and versatility. Whether you're snacking on them or incorporating them into your meals, prunes offer a delightful way to enhance your diet while enjoying their unique flavor.
Shropshire prune has medium sized blueblack damsons with a very good flavour It has been grown for hundreds of years and is perhaps the best tasting of the damsons Makes a smaller tree
Plums are sent from November until March as bare rooted one year old trees All varieties are self fertile unless stated They need a sheltered position protected from frost Plum trees are quite hardy but they flower early in the year so if you loose the flower to frost there will not be any fruit The soil needs to be rich and moisture retentive but not waterlogged A sunny position will help the fruit to ripen and become sweet Plums do not store so pick and eat or destone and freeze Many varieties are dual purpose so as well as being delicious to just eat they can be cooked to make pies crumbles jams and chutney
Prune plums in the summer after cropping unlike most other top fruit which is pruned in the winter
Blue Tit has round medium sized dark blue plums with yellow flesh They are quite juicy with good flavour for eating and cooking It is a reliable cropper and a good garden variety
Plums are sent from November until March as bare rooted one year old trees All varieties are self fertile unless stated They need a sheltered position protected from frost Plum trees are quite hardy but they flower early in the year so if you loose the flower to frost there will not be any fruit The soil needs to be rich and moisture retentive but not waterlogged A sunny position will help the fruit to ripen and become sweet Plums do not store so pick and eat or destone and freeze Many varieties are dual purpose so as well as being delicious to just eat they can be cooked to make pies crumbles jams and chutney
Prune plums in the summer after cropping unlike most other top fruit which is pruned in the winter
