The season for plums is here! Plums are loved as a healthy drink to beat the summer heat. Today, we'll explore how to make plum syrup along with some helpful tips. Plum syrup is not only great for quenching thirst in the summer but also a versatile ingredient in cooking. So, shall we dive into the details of making plum syrup?

What You'll Need to Make Plum Syrup

First, let's gather the ingredients needed to make plum syrup. Here's what you'll need:

• Plums
• Sugar
• A Jar (earthenware, glass, plastic, etc.)
• Stem removal tool
• Colander for drying
• Basin for washing plums
• Measuring cup or scale

It's best to use a 1:1 ratio of plums to sugar. For example, if you buy 10kg of plums, you'll need 10kg of sugar as well. I make about 30kg every year, and even though my family isn't large, we use it in various drinks and dishes!

Tips for Choosing Good Plums

The key to delicious plum syrup lies in the quality of the plums. Here are some tips for selecting the best ones:

• Choose plums that are free from blemishes and look clean.
• Opt for those with an oval shape and a vibrant color.
• Plums with a strong sour taste rather than sweetness are preferable for syrup.

The size of the plums can also determine their best use, so choose based on whether you're making plum wine, pickles, or concentrate. Also, be careful not to confuse plums with similar-looking fruits like apricots!

How to Make Plum Syrup

Now, let's get down to making the plum syrup! After removing the stems from your prepared plums, wash them thoroughly and let them dry completely. Make sure there's no residual moisture, as it can lead to mold. Next, layer the plums and sugar in the jar, placing plums first and then covering them with sugar. It's crucial to finish by completely covering the plums with sugar!

Afterward, cover the opening with plastic wrap and secure it with a rubber band to prevent ants from getting in. Store the plum syrup in a cool, well-ventilated place. After about 100 days of fermentation, you'll have delicious plum concentrate.

Health Benefits of Plum Syrup

Plum syrup is more than just a tasty beverage; it offers numerous health benefits. Plums are known to aid digestion, relieve fatigue, prevent chronic diseases, and detoxify the body. The sour components in plums stimulate digestive fluid secretion, promoting good gut health. Plum syrup is also excellent for quenching thirst during the summer – be sure to make some!

We've covered how to make plum syrup and shared some useful tips. Give it a try and have a healthy summer!