When it comes to cooking with plums, the possibilities are endless. This versatile fruit can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, making it a great addition to any meal or snack. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer salad or a warm and comforting dessert, plums are a great ingredient to have on hand.
From classic jam-making to innovative uses like plum sorbet with mint, we’ve rounded up 18 delicious plum recipes that showcase the fruit’s versatility. Whether you prefer sweet treats or savory dishes, there’s something for everyone in this collection of plum-based recipes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these tasty options and explore the many ways you can incorporate plums into your cooking routine.
Spiced Plum Chutney
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this sweet and spicy plum chutney, perfect for topping naan bread or using as a condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plums (any variety), chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine plums, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and let cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plum and Almond Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the natural sweetness of plums with the nutty flavor of almonds, perfect for a delicious dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups pitted plums, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Arrange plum slices in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle sugar and almonds evenly over the plums.
5. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush with melted butter and egg wash.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Plum Salad with Goat Cheese
This refreshing summer salad combines the natural sweetness of grilled plums with the tanginess of goat cheese, all on a bed of crisp mixed greens. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe plums, sliced into wedges
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill plum wedges for 3-4 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped nuts.
4. Drizzle olive oil and balsamic vinegar over the salad; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange grilled plums on top of the salad.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Plum Jam with Vanilla Bean
Sweet and Tangy Plum Jam with Vanilla Bean
This recipe yields a deliciously flavored jam that’s perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. The addition of vanilla bean adds a subtle creaminess and depth to the sweetness of the plums.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups plums (any variety), pitted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine plums, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the fruit is tender and the liquid has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla bean. Let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the jam through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much juice as possible.
5. Whisk in lemon juice and let the jam cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Plum and Ginger Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the sweetness of plums with the warmth of ginger, perfect for a healthy pick-me-up on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe plum, pitted
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine plum, ginger, yogurt, milk, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if desired for a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is fully incorporated.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Roasted Plum Ice Cream
This unique ice cream flavor combines the sweetness of plums with a hint of savory roasted notes, creating a one-of-a-kind dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup roasted plum puree (see below for roasting instructions)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Roasted Plum Puree:
– 3-4 plums, any variety, pitted and cut into quarters
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the plums with brown sugar and cinnamon for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized.
3. In a blender or food processor, puree the roasted plums until smooth.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, honey, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Fold in the roasted plum puree during the last 2 minutes of churning.
Cooking Time: None
Plum and Pork Stir-Fry
This sweet and savory stir-fry combines tender pork, juicy plums, and crunchy vegetables for a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large plums, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add plums, soy sauce, and honey to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until plums are tender.
5. Return pork to the pan and stir-fry until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Plum Clafoutis
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of plums baked in a crispy, buttery batter. This classic French dessert is perfect for warm weather when plums are in season.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 cups fresh or frozen plums, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon rum or vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together plums, sugar, and flour.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and rum/vanilla extract (if using). Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish or individual ramekins.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Plum and Rosemary Focaccia
This sweet and savory focaccia combines the natural sweetness of plums with the earthy flavor of rosemary, creating a unique and delicious bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/2 cup pitted and sliced plums (such as Santa Rosa or Italian Prune)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top with rosemary leaves, plums, and honey. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Plum Sorbet with Mint
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy plum sorbet infused with the cooling flavor of fresh mint. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and yields a delicious dessert perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups plums, pitted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the plums until smooth.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the plum puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
4. Stir in the fresh mint leaves and lemon juice.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once set, scoop the sorbet into cones or bowls and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus churning time)
Plum and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized plums, creamy brie, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread
– 1/4 cup of brie cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of fresh plums, sliced
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 tablespoon of butter, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with brie cheese, sliced plums, and a drizzle of honey.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Plum and Cardamom Cake
This moist and aromatic cake is a perfect combination of sweet plums and warm cardamom, making it a unique dessert to impress your guests. The cardamom adds a subtle spice flavor that complements the sweetness of the plums perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup diced plums (fresh or dried)
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy.
4. Add the plums, cardamom, and salt to the wet ingredients; mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; stir until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Plum and Blackberry Crumble
This sweet and tangy crumble is perfect for a cozy evening dessert or as a delicious snack to share with friends. With the sweetness of plums and blackberries balanced by the crunch of oatmeal and butter, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh plums, sliced
– 1 cup fresh blackberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine plums, blackberries, granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Toss until fruit is evenly coated.
3. Transfer fruit mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top fruit with crumble mixture, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until topping is golden brown and fruit is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Plum and Thyme Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the flavors of juicy plums, fragrant thyme, and crispy skin. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1/2 cup fresh plums, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp honey
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, honey, and thyme.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the sliced plums on top of the chicken, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Plum and Hazelnut Granola
Start your day with a sweet and crunchy twist on traditional granola by combining the flavors of juicy plums and nutty hazelnuts. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (including hazelnuts)
– 1/2 cup dried plum pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and dried plum pieces.
3. In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, salt, and vanilla extract. Heat over low heat, stirring until dissolved.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Plum and Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a comforting bowl of oatmeal infused with the sweetness of plums and the warmth of cinnamon. This recipe is perfect for a chilly morning or as a soothing snack any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 1/4 cup diced fresh plums (such as Italian prunes)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey, brown sugar, or chopped nuts for added sweetness and crunch
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, diced plums, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the oats are well coated.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has a creamy consistency.
4. Serve hot, topped with your choice of sweetener or crunch.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Plum and Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Elevate your grilling game with this unique plum and bourbon BBQ sauce that adds a sweet and tangy twist to traditional BBQ flavors. This rich and velvety sauce is perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plums, pureed
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine plums, ketchup, bourbon, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Let the sauce cool completely before using.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Plum and Coconut Panna Cotta
Panna cotta, an Italian dessert, takes on a tropical twist with the addition of sweet plums and creamy coconut. This refreshing treat is perfect for warm weather or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup pureed plums (canned or fresh)
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in coconut and pureed plums. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into a large bowl to remove the coconut solids.
4. Whisk in vanilla extract. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: None
Serve chilled and enjoy!
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with these 18 delicious plum recipes, perfect for every season. From sweet treats like Plum Jam with Vanilla Bean and Roasted Plum Ice Cream, to savory dishes like Grilled Plum Salad with Goat Cheese and Plum and Pork Stir-Fry, there’s something for everyone. Try making a Spiced Plum Chutney as a condiment or enjoy the warmth of a Plum and Ginger Smoothie on a chilly day. This collection has got you covered with recipes that showcase the versatility of plums in both sweet and savory dishes.
