How to Freeze Plums for Year-Round Enjoyment

Introduction

Plums are a delicious and versatile fruit that can be enjoyed all year round through various preservation techniques, including freezing. This guide will walk you through different methods for freezing plums, ensuring you get the best flavor and texture for smoothies, desserts, and even cocktails.

Method 1: Dry-Freezing Plums

1. Pick or Purchase Ripe Plums

Select plums that are in good shape, free of blemishes, wrinkles, and spots. They should be at the peak of ripeness, sweet and flavorful. Avoid green or overripe plums as these do not freeze well.

2. Wash the Plums

Run them under cool water and gently rub their skin to remove any dirt or debris. This step ensures that your plums are clean and ready for processing.

3. Slice the Plums into Wedges

Carefully use a sharp paring knife to slice them into wedges about an inch thick, discarding the pits and stems. Slicing the plums properly allows for even freezing.

4. Lay the Plum Slices on a Baking Sheet

Spread the slices out in a single layer on a baking sheet with no overlapping to prevent sticking. Cover the baking sheet with a layer of plastic wrap to keep the fruit moist while freezing.

5. Freeze the Plum Slices Until Firm

Place the entire tray in the freezer until the plums are firm and no longer sticky. This should take about an hour.

6. Store the Frozen Plums in a Freezer Bag

Fill the freezer storage bag to within an inch of the top, squeezing out as much excess air as possible. Use a vacuum sealer or a straw to ensure freshness.

Dry-frozen plum slices will last up to 6 months in the freezer. For longer storage, consider packing them in syrup.

Method 2: Packing Plums in Syrup

1. Wash Ripe Plums

Select fresh ripe plums free of blemishes, wrinkles, and spots. Test a plum to ensure it is at the peak of ripeness. Rinse under cool water to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Peel the Plums (Optional)

Peeling the plums before freezing often results in a mushy texture upon thawing. However, blanching plums in boiling water for 30 seconds, followed by plunging them into an ice bath, makes peeling easier.

3. Slice the Plums and Pit Them

Cut the plums in half and remove the pit. For better retention of texture, keep them in halves. You can also cut them into smaller slices.

4. Mix the Plums with a Sugar Solution

Add a sweet sugar solution to preserve flavor and freshness. Options include simple syrup, plum juice, or apple juice. You can also layer plums with sugar without a liquid.

5. Store in Freezer Bags

Pour the plums and solution into freezer bags, filling each to within an inch of the top. Use a vacuum sealer or a straw to remove air.

Syrup-packed plums can last up to 12 months in the freezer and are versatile for desserts and toppings.

Method 3: Freezing Plums Whole

1. Wash Ripe Plums

Choose fresh, ripe plums that are sweet and juicy for the best flavor when thawed. Rinse under cool water to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Place the Plums in a Storage Bag

Simply place the whole fresh plums in a freezer storage bag, filling it as close to the top as possible. Use a straw or a vacuum sealer to remove excess air.

3. Consume the Frozen Plums

When ready to eat, remove plums from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few minutes. Whole frozen plums have a delightful icy-sweet texture and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert.

Conclusion

Freezing plums allows you to enjoy their sweet and fruity goodness all year round. Whether you choose to dry-freeze, pack them in syrup, or leave them whole, each method has its benefits. Experiment with different preservation techniques to find your preferred frozen plum recipe.