Why Freeze Plums?
Freezing is one of the easiest and fastest ways to preserve your garden harvest. Enjoy the sweetness of summer all year by freezing your fresh plums.
Preparation for Freezing
Follow these steps to prepare your plums for freezing:
- Set your freezer to the lowest setting (not below -10°F) to freeze your fruit rapidly and minimize cell wall rupture.
- Choose durable, airtight containers like freezer bags, vacuum-sealed bags, or freezer jars for best results. Avoid containers like paper cartons, which allow freezer burn.
- Wash your plums in cold water and sort out any bruised or overripe fruit.
Method 1: Freezing in Syrup
- Prepare a 40% sugar syrup by mixing 2 ¾ cups of organic sugar with 4 cups of lukewarm water. Add ½ teaspoon of ascorbic acid to prevent discoloration.
- Boil water and blanch the plums for 15-20 seconds until the skins loosen. Transfer them to ice water to stop cooking.
- Peel, halve, and pit the plums. Add the fruit to jars, filling them 1/3 of the way with chilled syrup. Ensure the fruit is fully covered, leaving 1 inch of headspace.
- Seal the jars with freezer-safe lids and place them in the freezer.
Method 2: Freezing Without Syrup
- Slice and pit the plums as needed.
- Lay the pieces on a flat surface (such as a baking tray) and place it in the freezer. This step prevents the fruit from sticking together.
- Once frozen, transfer the plum pieces to freezer bags, vacuum-seal them if desired, label the bags, and return them to the freezer.
Vacuum-Sealing for Longer Storage
Use a vacuum sealer to maximize the shelf life of your frozen plums. Ensure at least 1 ½ inches of space in the bag for a proper seal. Follow the instructions for your vacuum sealer to seal your fruit effectively.
Enjoy Your Frozen Plums
Frozen plums can last up to 12 months in syrup or 6 months when frozen without syrup. Use them in desserts, smoothies, or enjoy them as a refreshing snack during the winter months.
Preserve your fruit and grow organic for life!
