How to Make Prunes: A Guide to Drying Plums
Prunes are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day. They are made by drying plums, which concentrates their natural sugars and flavors. In this article, we will teach you how to make prunes at home.
1. Choose the Right Plums
The first step in making prunes is to choose the right plums. Look for plums that are ripe but not overripe. They should be firm and free of blemishes. The best varieties of plums for making prunes include Italian, French, and d'Agen plums. Once you have selected your plums, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a towel.
2. Pit and Halve the Plums
To begin the drying process, you will need to pit and halve the plums. This can be done using a sharp knife or a plum pitter. If you are using a knife, simply slice the plum in half and remove the pit. If you are using a pitter, follow the manufacturer's instructions to remove the pit. Once you have pitted and halved all of your plums, place them in a large bowl.
3. Soak the Plums
Before you start drying the plums, you will need to soak them in a solution of water and lemon juice. This will help to preserve the color of the plums and prevent them from turning brown. To make the solution, mix 1 cup of lemon juice with 4 cups of water. Add the plums to the solution and let them soak for 10 minutes.
4. Dry the Plums
After soaking, lay the plums out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are spaced out evenly and not touching each other. Place the baking sheet in an oven set to 140°F (60°C) and leave the door slightly ajar. Allow the plums to dry for 24-36 hours, or until they are completely dry and wrinkled.
5. Store the Prunes
Once your prunes are dry, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. You can store them at room temperature for up to 6 months, or in the refrigerator for up to a year. Enjoy them as a snack, or use them in baking and cooking recipes.
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