To store cherry plums, the best method depends on their ripeness and whether they are whole or cut. Ripe cherry plums are best kept in the refrigerator, while unripe ones should ripen at room temperature.
Storing Ripe Cherry Plums
Once cherry plums are ripe, refrigeration is key to extending their freshness.
Storing Whole Ripe Cherry Plums
For whole, ripe cherry plums:
- Place them in a bowl: Gently arrange the plums in a bowl.
- Cover: Cover the bowl to protect them from dehydration and absorption of refrigerator odors. A simple plastic wrap or a breathable lid works well.
- Refrigerate: Store them in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to a week.
Storing Cut Ripe Cherry Plums
If you need to store cherry plums after cutting them:
- Prepare the fruit: First, remove the pits.
- Cut: Slice the fruit into desired chunks or wedges.
- Container: Place the cut pieces into a sealed food protection container.
- Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. Cut plums typically last 3-4 days when stored this way.
Storing Unripe Cherry Plums
If your cherry plums are still firm and not fully ripe:
- Room temperature: Leave them on your kitchen counter at room temperature.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent premature spoilage.
- Check daily: Monitor them daily until they soften slightly and develop their full color and aroma, indicating ripeness. Once ripe, move them to the refrigerator.
Long-Term Storage Solutions for Cherry Plums
For extending the shelf life of cherry plums beyond a week, consider these long-term methods:
Freezing Cherry Plums
Freezing is an excellent way to preserve cherry plums for several months.
- Wash and Dry: Thoroughly wash the plums and dry them completely.
- Pit (Optional): You can freeze them whole, or for easier future use, pit them and cut them in half.
- Flash Freeze: Arrange whole or halved plums in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (1-2 hours). This prevents them from sticking together.
- Transfer to Bags: Once frozen, transfer the plums to freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Store: Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 6-12 months.
Drying Cherry Plums
Drying cherry plums concentrates their flavor and creates a delicious snack.
- Dehydrator: Pit the plums and cut them in half. Place them cut-side up on dehydrator trays. Follow your dehydrator's instructions, typically drying at 135°F (57°C) for 8-12 hours until leathery.
- Oven Method: You can also dry them in an oven at its lowest setting (around 150°F / 65°C) with the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. This can take longer than a dehydrator.
- Storage: Store dried plums in airtight containers at room temperature for several months.
Preserving Cherry Plums
Cherry plums are wonderful for making preserves, which significantly extends their shelf life:
- Jams and Jellies: Cook pitted, chopped plums with sugar and pectin to create delicious jams or jellies.
- Compotes and Sauces: Simmer plums with a bit of sugar and spices to make compotes or sauces that can be canned or frozen.
- Canning: For long-term shelf stability, follow proper canning procedures for plum preserves.
Quick Reference Guide for Cherry Plum Storage
| Plum Condition | Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unripe | Room Temperature | 3-7 days | Until soft and fragrant |
| Ripe, Whole | Refrigerator, covered | Up to 1 week | In a bowl, covered to prevent dehydration |
| Ripe, Cut | Refrigerator, sealed | 3-4 days | Pit and cut, store in airtight container |
| Long-Term | Freezer | 6-12 months | Flash freeze first, then in freezer bags/containers |
| Long-Term | Dried | Several months | Dehydrator or low-temperature oven |
| Long-Term | Preserved | 1-2 years (canned) | Jams, jellies, compotes, sauces |
Tips for Maximizing Cherry Plum Freshness
- Avoid washing early: Wash plums just before eating or using them. Excess moisture can accelerate spoilage.
- Inspect regularly: Check your stored plums for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or mushy spots, and remove affected fruit immediately to prevent it from spreading.
- Ethylene sensitivity: Keep plums away from ethylene-producing fruits like apples, bananas, and avocados if you want to slow down their ripening process.
By following these storage guidelines, you can enjoy your cherry plums at their peak freshness, whether for a few days or many months.
