Drying plums in a dehydrator is a fantastic way to preserve the sweet and juicy flavors of this versatile fruit. It allows you to enjoy the taste of plums long after the season has passed, making them a perfect ingredient for baking, snacking, or adding a touch of sweetness to your culinary creations. With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can easily transform fresh plums into delicious dried treats that will satisfy your taste buds and provide a healthy snack option.
Choosing the Right Plums for Dehydrating
The key to successful plum drying lies in selecting the right plums. Opt for firm, ripe plums with minimal blemishes or bruises. Avoid overly ripe plums as they tend to become mushy during the drying process. Plums with a high sugar content, such as Italian prune plums, are ideal for drying, as they yield a naturally sweet and chewy texture. Other varieties suitable for dehydrating include French prune plums, Damson plums, and Black Amber plums.
Preparing the Plums for Dehydration
- Washing and Pitting: Begin by washing the plums thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Once clean, carefully cut each plum in half lengthwise and remove the pit.
- Slicing or Quartering: Depending on your preference, you can either slice the plums into ¼-inch thick pieces or quarter them. Sliced plums will dry faster but may have a slightly drier texture.
- Treating with Lemon Juice: To prevent discoloration and preserve the natural color of the plums, gently toss the sliced or quartered plums with a tablespoon of lemon juice. This helps to inhibit oxidation.
Dehydrating the Plums in Your Dehydrator
- Setting the Temperature: Most dehydrators have a recommended temperature range for drying fruits, typically between 135°F to 145°F (57°C to 63°C). Setting the temperature too high can cause the plums to cook rather than dry, leading to a sticky, sugary texture.
- Arranging the Plums: Arrange the prepared plum slices or quarters on the dehydrator trays in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. This allows for even air circulation and drying.
- Drying Time: The drying time for plums varies depending on the thickness of the slices, the humidity level, and the type of dehydrator used. It generally takes between 6 to 12 hours.
- Checking for Doneness: As the plums dry, they will shrink and become leathery. To test for doneness, gently squeeze a plum slice. It should be pliable but not sticky. If it feels moist or sticks to your finger, continue drying for a few more hours.
Storing Dried Plums
Once the plums are thoroughly dried, they need to be stored properly to maintain their quality and prevent spoilage.
- Cooling: After removing the dried plums from the dehydrator, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. This helps to prevent condensation from forming and making the plums sticky.
- Storing in an Airtight Container: Once cool, store the dried plums in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. This will prevent them from absorbing moisture from the air and becoming moldy.
- Freezing: Dried plums can also be frozen for extended storage. Place the dried plums in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 6 months.
Using Dried Plums
Dried plums are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some ideas:
- Snacking: Enjoy dried plums as a healthy and satisfying snack on their own or add them to trail mix for a boost of sweetness and nutrients.
- Baking: Incorporate dried plums into cakes, cookies, breads, muffins, and crumbles for a unique and delicious flavor.
- Cooking: Dried plums can be used in savory dishes like stews, braises, and sauces to add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Drinks: Add dried plums to hot water for a comforting and flavorful tea, or simmer them in water to make a delicious plum syrup.
Tips and Tricks for Drying Plums in a Dehydrator
- For faster drying, use a fan to circulate air around the dehydrator.
- If your plums are very juicy, you can lightly sprinkle them with sugar before dehydrating to help absorb excess moisture.
- To prevent sticking, line the dehydrator trays with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Store dried plums in an airtight container with a desiccant packet to absorb any remaining moisture.
- Experiment with different plum varieties and add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dried plums for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Drying plums in a dehydrator is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to preserve the delightful flavors of this fruit. With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can enjoy the taste of fresh plums all year round. From healthy snacking to creative baking, dried plums offer a world of possibilities, making them a valuable addition to any kitchen.
