Drying plums in a dehydrator is a fantastic way to preserve the deliciousness of this versatile fruit and enjoy them year-round. This method ensures even drying, preventing spoilage and resulting in a chewy, intensely flavored treat perfect for snacking, baking, or adding to other recipes. This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting the right plums to storing your finished product.
Choosing the Perfect Plums for Dehydrating
The success of your plum-drying endeavor hinges on choosing the right fruit. Look for plums that are:
- Ripe but firm: Avoid overly soft or bruised plums, as they're more prone to spoilage and may not dry evenly.
- Free of blemishes: Inspect each plum for cuts, bruises, or signs of rot.
- Sweet and flavorful: The flavor of your dried plums will depend on the quality of the fresh fruit.
Consider these varieties:
- Italian Prunes: A classic choice for drying, known for their sweetness and excellent drying characteristics.
- Damson Plums: These tart plums offer a unique flavor profile when dried.
- Santa Rosa Plums: These sweet and juicy plums are also a great option for dehydrating.
Pro Tip: Slightly underripe plums are often better for drying, as they retain more of their shape and firmness during the dehydration process.
Preparing Plums for Dehydration
Proper preparation is key to achieving perfectly dried plums. Here’s how:
1. Washing and Halving:
Thoroughly wash the plums under cold running water. Cut each plum in half and remove the pit. If you have very small plums, you can leave them whole.
2. Treatment (Optional):
Some people like to treat their plums before dehydrating to prevent enzymatic browning and preserve color. You can do this by:
- Blanching: Briefly dip plum halves in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- Sulphuring: This method involves exposing the plums to sulfur dioxide fumes, which helps retain color and prevent browning. This requires specialized equipment and is typically used for large-scale drying. It's generally not necessary for home dehydrating.
3. Arrange Plums on Dehydrator Trays:
Arrange the plum halves, cut-side up, on the dehydrator trays. Ensure they’re not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation. Overlapping will lead to uneven drying and potential spoilage.
Dehydrating the Plums
The drying time will depend on your dehydrator, the size of your plum halves, and the humidity. Follow these guidelines:
- Temperature: Set your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C). This low temperature helps preserve nutrients and flavor while ensuring even drying.
- Drying Time: This typically takes 12-24 hours, but you may need longer depending on the thickness of the plum halves and the humidity.
- Check Regularly: Check your plums every few hours. They're done when they are leathery and pliable, not brittle or hard. You should be able to easily bend them without breaking.
Storing Dried Plums
Once your plums are dry, allow them to cool completely before storing. Proper storage is crucial to maintain their quality and prevent spoilage.
- Cool, Dry Place: Store your dried plums in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place.
- Freezing (Optional): For longer-term storage, you can freeze your dried plums. This will help maintain their flavor and texture for up to a year.
Using Your Dried Plums
Dried plums are incredibly versatile! Use them in:
- Snacking: Enjoy them straight from the container.
- Baking: Add them to muffins, cakes, cookies, and breads.
- Cooking: Incorporate them into savory dishes like stews and tagines.
- Making Plum Sauce: Create a delicious plum sauce for meats or desserts.
By following these steps, you can successfully dehydrate plums and enjoy their delicious flavor throughout the year. Happy drying!
