How To Pickle Plums Japanese

Preserving the Flavors of Summer: How to Pickle Japanese Plums

Japanese plums, also known as ume, are a popular fruit in Japanese cuisine. These small, tart plums are often used to make umeboshi, a traditional pickle that is a staple in Japanese households. If you have an abundance of Japanese plums and want to preserve their unique flavor, pickling them is a great option. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of pickling Japanese plums so you can enjoy their tangy goodness all year round.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, make sure you have the following ingredients and equipment on hand:

• Fresh Japanese plums
• Sea salt
• Shiso leaves
• Pickling jars
• A clean cloth

Step 1: Prepare the Plums

Start by rinsing the plums thoroughly and removing any stems. Use a sharp knife to make a small slit in each plum to help the pickling brine penetrate the fruit.

Step 2: Salt the Plums

Place the plums in a large bowl and sprinkle them with a generous amount of sea salt. Gently toss the plums to ensure they are evenly coated with the salt. Let the plums sit for about 24 hours to draw out excess moisture.

Step 3: Rinse and Dry

After 24 hours, rinse the plums under cold water to remove the salt. Pat them dry with a clean cloth and set them aside.

Step 4: Pack the Jars

Layer the plums and shiso leaves in clean pickling jars. The shiso leaves will impart a lovely flavor and color to the pickled plums.

Step 5: Prepare the Brine

In a separate bowl, mix together a brine using water and sea salt. Pour the brine over the plums in the jars, making sure they are completely submerged.

Step 6: Seal and Store

Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place for at least 1 month to allow the flavors to develop. The pickled plums will keep for up to a year if stored properly.

Enjoying Pickled Japanese Plums

Once your pickled plums are ready, you can enjoy them in a variety of ways. They make a delicious accompaniment to rice dishes, can be used to add a tangy kick to salads, or enjoyed on their own as a flavorful snack. Experiment with different ways to incorporate pickled Japanese plums into your meals and discover the unique taste of this traditional Japanese pickle.

Preserving the flavors of summer is a rewarding endeavor, and pickling Japanese plums is a wonderful way to capture the essence of this beloved fruit. With a little time and patience, you can create a delicious and versatile condiment that will enhance your culinary creations throughout the year.

So, if you find yourself with an abundance of Japanese plums, consider trying your hand at pickling. With this simple guide, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the tangy and umami flavors of pickled Japanese plums whenever the craving strikes.