Before diving into the recipe, let’s first discuss the ingredients and equipment you will need. To make plum juice, you will obviously require ripe plums. Choose plums that are slightly firm but not overly ripe. Additionally, you will need a sharp knife, cutting board, large pot for boiling, a blender or a juicer, a fine-mesh strainer, and a pitcher to your made juice.
Now, let’s move on to the simple steps to follow:
Step 1: Wash and Prepare the Plums
Start by cleaning the plums thoroughly under running water. Once clean, remove any stems or leaves. If desired, you can also peel the skin off the plums, although it’s not necessary. The skin adds extra flavor and important nutrients to the juice.
Step 2: Cut the Plums
Using a sharp knife and a cutting board, carefully cut the plums in half, removing the pit from each plum. If the plums are large, you can further cut them into quarters to speed up the cooking process.
Step 3: Boil the Plums
Place the plum halves in a large pot and add just enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat and then reduce it to a simmer. Allow the plums to cook for around 20-25 minutes until they become soft and mushy. Stir occasionally to them from sticking to the pot.
Step 4: Blend or Juice the Plums
Once the plums are cooked, carefully pour them into a blender or a juicer, depending on the method you prefer. Blend or juice the plums until you achieve a smooth puree.
Step 5: Strain the Juice
To remove any remaining solids or pulp, pass the plum puree through a fine-mesh strainer. Use the back of a spoon to press down on the pulp, extracting as much juice as possible. Discard the solids or save them for another purpose, such as making plum jam or sauce.
Step 6: Store and Serve
Pour the strained juice into a clean pitcher and refrigerate it until chilled. Alternatively, you can serve the juice immediately over ice. If desired, you can add a squeeze of juice or a touch of honey for added flavor.
Making your own plum juice allows you to control the sweetness and ensures that you’re getting a pure, unadulterated beverage without any added preservatives or artificial flavors. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy plums while also reaping numerous health benefits. So, next time you have an abundance of plums, try making homemade plum juice and indulge in its delightful taste!