Preserve plum freshness: Medieval methods make a comeback
23 September 2024 16:31
Plums are one of the most popular seasonal fruits. They have one small drawback—they spoil really quickly. However, there is a way to significantly extend their freshness, and this method was already used in the Middle Ages.
Plums are not only tasty but also healthy. These small, purple fruits contain valuable nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, B6, K, polyphenols, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. They are also a source of fibre, which aids in bowel function.
The plum season starts at the end of July and ends at the beginning of October. During this time, it is worth eating plums as often as possible. How can you extend their freshness? You don't have to put them in the freezer. Try the method used in the Middle Ages.
How to extend the freshness of plums?
When there was no electricity yet, people managed as best they could. During that time, many methods of food preservation were invented, which are still used today. The most popular method is pickling, which was invented in ancient times, just like drying.
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Freezing is a relatively new invention, as this method was developed in the 1920s. The creator was Clarence Birdseye, who worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. One day, he met with the Inuit, who taught him how to fish under ice. He noticed that meat stored at such a low temperature almost instantly froze and retained all its nutritional values after thawing.
Do this with fresh plums. They will last until the holidays
Freezing plums is one of the most popular methods of preserving these fruits, but it has drawbacks. Thawed plums lose their texture and also their taste. This can be avoided. Just try the medieval method of preserving plums.
You will need plums with stems (a mandatory condition), some melted wax, and straw. Start by melting the wax, then dip the plum stems in it. Immediately after dipping, grab some straw and wrap the fruits in it. Store the prepared plums in a dark, cold, and dry place. They will last even until winter.
