Frozen Peaches And Plums. Recipe

Frozen peaches and plums is a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe peaches with the tartness of sour plums. This frozen treat is perfect for hot summer days when you want to indulge in something cool and flavorful. The recipe has been passed down through generations, and its origins can be traced back to the early 19th century when frozen desserts were gaining popularity.

The combination of peaches and plums creates a perfect balance of flavors. Peaches, with their juicy and sweet flesh, add a natural sweetness to the dessert, while the sour plums provide a tangy and refreshing twist. When paired together, they create a harmonious blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

To prepare this delectable treat, you will need a dozen and a half ripe, soft peaches. Select peaches that are at the peak of ripeness to ensure maximum flavor. Once you have gathered your peaches, carefully remove the skin and seeds. The easiest way to remove the skin is to blanch the peaches in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool. The skin will easily peel away. Cut the peaches into small pieces and place them in a large bowl.

Next, you will need to prepare the sour plums. Begin by removing the skin and seeds from a quart of sour plums. To mash the plums, you can use a fork or a potato masher. Mash them until they form a smooth consistency. Add the mashed plums to the bowl of peaches.

Now, it's time to work the kernels of both fruits to a paste. This step is optional, but adding the kernels enhances the flavor and adds a nutty undertone to the dessert. Crush the kernels using a mortar and pestle until they form a paste. Add the paste to the bowl of fruits.

To sweeten the dessert, you will need to add sugar. The amount of sugar you add depends on the sweetness of your fruits and your personal preference. Start with a cup of sugar and adjust according to taste. Add the sugar to the bowl of fruits and mix well, ensuring that all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Let the mixture stand for about two hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

After two hours, add a quart of ice water to the fruit mixture. Stir well to incorporate the water into the mixture. At this point, you can choose to add some additional flavors if desired. For example, a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the taste of the dessert. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination.

Once all the ingredients are mixed together, it's time to freeze the mixture. Pour the fruit mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish and place it in the freezer. Stir the mixture every 30 minutes for the first few hours to prevent ice crystals from forming until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.

When the frozen peaches and plums have reached the desired consistency, it's time to serve and enjoy. Scoop the frozen dessert into bowls or cones and savor the delightful combination of flavors. The creamy texture and the burst of fruity sweetness will surely bring a smile to your face.

Fun fact: Did you know that frozen desserts have been enjoyed by humans for centuries? The ancient Chinese were known to enjoy a similar frozen dessert made from ice mixed with fruit juices. In the 18th century, Italian ice cream makers perfected the art of making frozen desserts, and the popularity of frozen treats spread throughout Europe.

If you're looking to explore more frozen fruit desserts, you might consider trying other combinations such as frozen berries or frozen mangoes. You can also experiment with different types of fruits, adding variety and exploring new flavors. Frozen fruit desserts are a great way to enjoy the natural sweetness of fruits while keeping cool during the summer months.

In conclusion, frozen peaches and plums offer a delightful blend of sweetness and tartness, making it the perfect summer dessert. With its rich history and the versatility to experiment with flavors, this frozen treat is sure to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the sweet pleasure of frozen fruits, and indulge in this delicious dish.