Drying Plums: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
Introduction
Plums are a delicious and nutritious fruit, but what do you do when your tree produces more than you can eat? Drying plums is a great way to preserve this summer bounty and enjoy them all year round. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide to drying plums in the oven or a food dehydrator, including tips for choosing the right plum varieties, preparing the plums, and storing the finished product.
Choosing the Right Plums
Not all plums are suitable for drying. European plum varieties, such as Damson and Italian prune plums, are the best choice because they contain more natural sugars and have a firmer texture. Japanese plum varieties, on the other hand, tend to be softer and more prone to spoilage.
Preparing the Plums
Before drying plums, it’s important to prepare them properly. Wash the plums thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves. Small plums can be dried whole, but larger plums should be pitted and halved. To prevent the skins from sticking during drying, dip the plums in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then quickly cool them in ice water.
Drying the Plums
You can dry plums in either an oven or a food dehydrator.
Oven Drying:
- Preheat the oven to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius).
- Place the plums on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Leave space between the plums for air to circulate.
- Dry the plums for 24-36 hours, or until they feel leathery and pliable.
Food Dehydrator Drying:
- Arrange the plums on the drying trays.
- Set the dehydrator to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius).
- Dry the plums for 24-36 hours, or until they reach the desired doneness.
Testing for Doneness
To test if the plums are done, squeeze a few pieces of cooled fruit in your hand. If they stick together or ooze moisture, continue drying. Properly dried plums will feel leathery and pliable.
Conditioning the Prunes
Once the plums are dry, they need to be conditioned to evenly distribute the remaining moisture and prevent spoilage. Place the prunes in a lightly-covered glass or plastic bowl for 4-10 days. Stir or shake the prunes daily. If droplets of moisture appear inside the container, repeat the drying and conditioning process.
Storing Dried Prunes
Store dried prunes in vapor-tight jars, containers, or plastic bags. Keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place for optimal freshness. Dried prunes can be stored for up to 6-12 months.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Mold: If mold develops on the plums during drying, discard them immediately.
- Spoilage: If the prunes become slimy or develop an off odor, they have spoiled and should be discarded.
- Under-drying: If the prunes are still too moist after drying, continue drying them until they reach the desired doneness.
- Over-drying: If the prunes become hard and brittle, they have been over-dried.
Conclusion
Drying plums is a simple and rewarding way to preserve this delicious fruit. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy homemade prunes all year round.
