As the seasons change, our taste buds crave new flavors and textures to keep us company. And what better way to do that than with the sweet and tangy goodness of wild plums? Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these 18 delicious wild plum recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire your culinary creativity.
From sweet treats like Wild Plum Jam with Vanilla and Cinnamon and Wild Plum Sorbet with Mint, to savory delights like Grilled Wild Plum Skewers with Honey Glaze and Wild Plum BBQ Sauce for Ribs, there’s something on this list for everyone. And let’s not forget the fruity cocktails, like Wild Plum and Thyme Cocktail, or the elegant desserts, such as Wild Plum and Dark Chocolate Muffins.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the seasons, highlighting recipes that showcase the versatility of wild plums in both sweet and savory dishes. So grab your apron, get ready to cook up some deliciousness, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of wild plum recipes!
Wild Plum Jam with Vanilla and Cinnamon
This sweet and tangy jam is a perfect preserve for the wild plum season. With the warmth of vanilla and cinnamon, it’s a delicious addition to toast, yogurt, or as a topping for your favorite desserts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups wild plums, chopped
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pectin (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine plums, sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the fruit is tender.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon.
4. If using pectin, stir it in according to package instructions.
5. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the jam has thickened.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Spiced Wild Plum Chutney
Elevate your meals with this aromatic and tangy chutney made from wild plums, perfect for serving alongside grilled meats, cheeses, or as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb wild plums (such as damson or sloe), chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped plums, onion, garlic, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Wild Plum and Almond Tart
A sweet and tangy dessert that showcases the unique flavor of wild plums, paired with the crunch of almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild plum jam
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Spread wild plum jam over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle sliced almonds and granulated sugar over the jam.
5. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Wild Plum Skewers with Honey Glaze
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these sweet and savory skewers featuring wild plums, perfectly grilled to bring out their natural sweetness. A drizzle of honey glaze adds a touch of warmth and complexity.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb wild plums, pitted
– 10 bamboo skewers
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread 3-4 plums onto each skewer, leaving a small gap between each plum.
3. Brush both sides of the plums with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until plums are tender and slightly charred.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and soy sauce (if using). Brush glaze onto skewers during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Wild Plum Sorbet with Mint
This sweet and tangy sorbet is a perfect blend of wild plums, fresh mint, and a hint of citrus. A delightful treat for warm weather or as a palate cleanser between courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups wild plum puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine wild plum puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped mint leaves and lemon juice. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Freeze sorbet for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including cooling time)
Wild Plum and Ginger Smoothie
Discover the sweet and tangy flavors of wild plum and ginger in this refreshing smoothie. Perfect for a hot summer day or as a healthy pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen wild plums
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine wild plums, ginger, and banana.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding Greek yogurt and honey as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spiciness to your liking.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and enjoy!
Wild Plum BBQ Sauce for Ribs
Add a sweet and tangy twist to your ribs with this unique Wild Plum BBQ Sauce recipe. The combination of plums, brown sugar, and spices creates a rich and fruity flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild plum preserves
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine wild plum preserves, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and ground cumin.
2. Whisk until smooth, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a sauce recipe!
Wild Plum and Rosemary Focaccia
This savory focaccia is infused with the sweetness of wild plums and the earthiness of rosemary, making it perfect for a rustic dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup wild plum jam (or preserves)
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add warm water, olive oil, and yeast. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down dough and roll out into a rectangle shape.
7. Brush the top with wild plum jam, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
8. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the jam.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Plum Clafoutis
This traditional French dessert is a perfect way to showcase the sweet and tangy flavors of wild plums. The result is a warm, golden-brown pudding-like dessert that’s both elegant and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen wild plums, pitted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the wild plums and toss gently to coat with the dry mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter.
5. Pour the wet ingredients over the plum mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with crème fraîche or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Wild Plum and Cardamom Compote
This compote is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, making it a unique addition to your breakfast or dessert table. The combination of wild plums and cardamom creates a complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild plums, chopped
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped wild plums, sugar, ground cardamom, and lemon juice.
2. Add the water to the saucepan and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the compote has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Plum and Thyme Cocktail
Experience the harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors with this unique cocktail that combines the tartness of wild plums with the earthy charm of thyme. This refreshing drink is perfect for warm evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Wild plum jam-infused vodka
– 1/2 oz Fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz Honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 3/4 oz Ginger liqueur
– 1/2 oz Thyme-infused simple syrup (see note)
– Splash of soda water
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh thyme sprig, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, lime juice, honey syrup, ginger liqueur, and thyme-infused simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh thyme sprig.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Wild Plum and Walnut Salad
Wild Plum and Walnut Salad Recipe
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of wild plums with the earthy crunch of walnuts, perfect for a light and satisfying side dish or main course. The tanginess of the dressing brings out the flavors of both ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild plum slices (about 4-6 plums)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the wild plum slices and chopped walnuts.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the plum-walnut mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None (salad is ready in under 10 minutes)
Wild Plum and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate the classic grilled cheese with the sweet and tangy flavors of wild plums and creamy brie. This unique combination is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup of brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup of caramelized wild plums (see note)
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted 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 bread slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with brie cheese, caramelized wild 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 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Wild Plum and Pork Belly Stir-Fry
This sweet and savory stir-fry combines the tender flesh of pork belly with the tartness of wild plums, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups wild plums, pitted and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork belly and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the wild plums, soy sauce, and honey to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the plums are tender.
5. Return the pork belly to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Plum and Dark Chocolate Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the natural sweetness of wild plums with the richness of dark chocolate, perfect for a breakfast treat or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup wild plum preserves (or similar)
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, milk, eggs, and wild plum preserves. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in dark chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Plum and Lavender Ice Cream
This unique ice cream flavor combines the sweet-tart taste of wild plums with the subtle floral notes of lavender, creating a refreshing and sophisticated dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pureed wild plums (or 1 cup fresh or frozen plums)
– 1 tsp dried lavender buds
– 1/4 tsp kosher salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in pureed wild plums and dried lavender buds. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container, discarding lavender buds.
4. Chill mixture in the refrigerator until cold, then churn according to ice cream maker’s instructions.
5. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling and freezing times)
Wild Plum and Star Anise Syrup
This syrup combines the tartness of wild plums with the warm, aromatic flavor of star anise. Perfect for topping pancakes, waffles, or ice cream, this unique syrup is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild plum jam
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 whole star anise pods
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Combine the wild plum jam and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Add the whole star anise pods to the mixture.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly.
4. Remove the star anise pods from the syrup and discard them.
5. Add the granulated sugar to the syrup and stir until dissolved.
6. Let the syrup cool before transferring it to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Wild Plum and Coconut Rice Pudding
Wild Plum and Coconut Rice Pudding: A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the flavors of wild plums and coconut with creamy rice pudding.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water or coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh wild plums (or 1/4 cup dried)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and combine with water or coconut milk, sugar, shredded coconut, wild plums, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly before serving warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fall in love with wild plums! This season, discover the versatility of this underappreciated fruit and elevate your cooking game with these 18 mouthwatering recipes. From sweet treats like Wild Plum Jam with Vanilla and Cinnamon and Wild Plum Sorbet with Mint to savory dishes like Grilled Wild Plum Skewers with Honey Glaze and Wild Plum BBQ Sauce for Ribs, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Plus, don’t miss the creative twists on classic desserts, like Wild Plum and Dark Chocolate Muffins and Wild Plum and Lavender Ice Cream. Try them out and enjoy the sweetness of wild plum all year round!
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