Plums: How to Select, Store, and Wash Summer’s Sweet Treat
Essential Tips for Choosing Ripe Plums, Proper Refrigeration for Longevity, and Effective Washing to Remove Pesticide Residues
Discover how to enjoy the delightful sweet and tart flavor of plums, a quintessential summer fruit packed with Vitamin C! July and August are prime season for plums, making them a must-have during warmer months. However, their tendency to spoil quickly and potential for reduced sweetness during the rainy season can be a concern. If you’ve found yourself discarding too many plums after a purchase, this guide is for you! Learn the best techniques for selecting perfectly ripe plums, practical refrigeration methods to extend their freshness, and how to wash them thoroughly to remove any residual pesticides. Become a savvy shopper and enjoy your plums to the fullest!
Essential Ingredients
- Fresh plums
- Baking soda
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
When selecting plums, pay close attention to their color and firmness. If you plan to eat them within a week, choose plums with a vibrant red hue and a slightly soft texture, as these tend to be the sweetest. For longer storage, opt for plums that are less red, feel firm to the touch, and have a glossy skin. These varieties hold up better when refrigerated. Consider your consumption timeline and preferences to make the best plum choices.
Step 2
Before storing, it’s a good practice to sort your plums by firmness, setting aside any slightly softer ones to be eaten first. Now, let’s get them clean! Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the surface of the plums. Gently rub each plum with your hands to ensure it’s coated. Once all plums have been lightly scrubbed, submerge them in a bowl of cold water for about 5 minutes. Be careful not to scrub too vigorously, as this can bruise the delicate fruit. After soaking, rinse the plums thoroughly with fresh water several times. For an extra layer of cleanliness, you can briefly soak them in a diluted vinegar solution to help remove any remaining pesticide residues.
Step 3
Thoroughly drying the plums is crucial for maintaining their freshness. Rinse them one last time under cool running water. Then, using paper towels or a soft, dry kitchen towel, gently pat each plum dry. Be sure to meticulously dry any moisture trapped between the plums or in crevices. Removing all residual water is key to preventing them from becoming mushy or spoiling in the refrigerator. Using a soft towel will help avoid damaging the plum’s skin while ensuring a good dry.
Step 4
Once completely dry, wrap each plum individually in a paper towel. Place the wrapped plums into a resealable bag or an airtight container. Stored this way in the refrigerator, your plums can remain fresh and delicious for up to three weeks! If you’ve bought a large quantity and plan to store them for an extended period, keeping them unwashed might be a better option for longevity. To enhance their sweetness, take the plums out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes to an hour before serving, allowing their natural sugars to develop further.
