Pickled Plums Recipe

Pickled Plums Recipe:

History:
Pickled plums have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of this recipe appearing in different cultures around the world. This method of preserving plums in a sweet and tangy vinegar solution was traditionally used to extend the shelf life of this fruit and enhance its flavor. The combination of spices adds a delightful aroma and complexity to the pickled plums. Fun fact: Pickled plums are commonly found in Japanese cuisine, particularly as a popular accompaniment to rice dishes.

Ingredients:
- 7 pounds of plums
- 4 pounds of white sugar
- 2 ounces of stick cinnamon
- 1 ounce of cloves
- 1 pint of best pickling vinegar

Instructions:
1. Prick each plum gently with a large needle to allow the pickling solution to penetrate the fruit.
2. Weigh the plums to ensure you have 7 pounds.
3. In a large pot, combine the white sugar, stick cinnamon, cloves, and pickling vinegar.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
5. Once the mixture is boiling, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
6. Place the pricked plums into a large jar, packing them tightly.
7. Pour the hot pickling solution over the plums in the jar, making sure to cover them completely.
8. Repeat this process two more times, pouring the hot solution over the plums.
9. While the vinegar mixture boils for the final time, prepare glass jars for storing the pickled plums.
10. Once the plums are packed in the glass jars, pour the remaining syrup over them.
11. Allow the jars to cool before sealing them.
12. Once cold, seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place.

Pickled Cantaloupe or Muskmelons Recipe:

Ingredients:
- Ripe cantaloupes or muskmelons
- Vinegar
- White sugar
- Stick cinnamon
- Cloves
- Allspice (whole spices)

Instructions:
1. Peel the cantaloupes or muskmelons, remove the seeds, and wash them.
2. Cut the fruit into slices approximately three inches long and two inches wide.
3. Place the slices in a stone jar and cover them with vinegar. Let them soak for twenty-four hours or longer.
4. After soaking, transfer the fruit slices onto a clean board to let them drip. Discard one quart of the vinegar for every quart remaining.
5. In a large pot, combine the remaining vinegar, white sugar, stick cinnamon, cloves, and allspice.
6. Boil the spices, vinegar, and sugar mixture. Add a pint of fresh vinegar to refresh the acidity.
7. Once well skimmed, put the melon slices into the pot and boil for fifteen to twenty minutes. The longer boiling time will result in a stronger flavor.
8. Remove the fruit from the pot and place it into sterilized jars.
9. Boil the syrup for a little longer, skimming any impurities that rise to the surface.
10. Pour the boiling hot syrup over the fruit in the jars.
11. Allow the jars to cool before sealing them.
12. Once cold, seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy pickling fruits, you might also like to try pickling other fruits such as peaches, pears, or cherries. These fruits can be pickled using similar methods and spices to create unique and delicious sweet and tangy flavors. Additionally, pickled plums and other pickled fruits can be served as a side dish to complement savory meals, or even used as a topping for cakes and desserts. The versatility of pickled fruits allows for endless culinary creations and experimentation.