Imagine the sweet and tangy flavor of Classic Plum Sauce, its rich texture, and vibrant color enhancing your favorite dishes. This is the joy of Classic Plum Sauce, a condiment that’s as delightful to savor as it is to prepare. Today, we’re going to embark on a culinary journey exploring this beloved sauce.

The Story Behind Classic Plum Sauce

Sauce is a staple in Chinese cuisine, known for its unique combination of sweet, sour, and slightly spicy flavors. Made from ripe plums, sugar, vinegar, and various seasonings, this sauce is often used as a dipping sauce or glaze, adding a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. The result is a condiment that’s rich in flavor, with a beautiful balance of sweetness and tanginess that can elevate any meal.

Table of Contents

Classic Chinese Plum Sauce

Imagine the sweet and tangy flavor of Classic Plum Sauce, its rich texture, and vibrant color enhancing your favorite dishes. This is the joy of Classic Plum Sauce, a condiment that's as delightful to savor as it is to prepare. Today, we're going to embark on a culinary journey exploring this beloved sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1 50

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Chinese

Servings 6 cups

Calories 35 kcal

Equipment

1 large saucepan
1 hand-held blender
canning jars

Ingredients

12 cups fresh ripe dark skin plums pitted
11/2 cup onion diced
11/2 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
2 cloves garlic minced
11/2 cup white sugar
3/4 cup rice vinegar
11/2 teaspoon dry coriander
1 teaspoon salt
2 pinches ground clove
2 pinches or more of red hot chili flakes
11/2 cup water

Instructions

In a large saucepan, add the plums, onions, garlic, ginger, and water. Bring to a boil on medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover and let the plums simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the plums are very tender. Remove from heat.
Using a hand-held blender, reduce the plum mixture to a purée.
Add the vinegar, sugar and remaining spices. Stir to combine well. Bring to a boil on medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 60 minutes, until it thickens.
To can the plum sauce, used canning jars like Mason jars that will have been boiled first. Let the jars sit in a boiling water bath for about thirty minutes.
Store in a cool and dark place.

Video

Notes

Choosing the right plums is key to achieving a well-rounded flavor profile for your sauce. Opt for ripe plums, preferably varieties such as Damson, Santa Rosa, or Satsuma, which are known for their sweet and slightly tart taste. The plums should be firm yet juicy, ensuring they contribute the ideal balance of sweetness and tanginess to the sauce. Remember, the quality of the plums will directly impact the final result, so select the best ones available.

Keyword Plum, Sauce

Cooking Tips

Plum Sauce is a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine, known for its unique blend of sweet, sour, and slightly spicy flavors. This sauce, made from ripe plums, sugar, vinegar, and various seasonings, is often used as a dipping sauce or glaze, adding a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you master the art of making this delicious sauce at home.

Selecting the Right Ingredients

The first step towards creating perfect Plum Sauce is choosing high-quality ingredients. The main components of this sauce are ripe plums, sugar, vinegar, and seasonings. Opt for ripe, juicy plums for the best flavor and texture. Also, use high-quality vinegar and spices for the best results, as they’re key to achieving the distinctive taste of Classic Plum Sauce.

Preparing the Plums

Preparing the plums correctly is crucial for achieving the right flavor and consistency in your Classic Plum Sauce. Start by washing the plums thoroughly and removing the pits. Then, chop the plums into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly and break down properly during cooking.

Balancing the Flavors

One of the key aspects of Classic Plum Sauce is its balance of sweet, sour, and slightly spicy flavors. It’s important to taste the sauce as you cook and adjust the seasonings as needed. The goal is to achieve a harmonious blend of these flavors, with none overpowering the others.

Achieving the Right Consistency

The consistency of your Plum Sauce is crucial. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but not so thick that it becomes difficult to pour. If your sauce is too thin, consider simmering it for a bit longer. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of water or additional vinegar.

Storing the Sauce

Proper storage is key to maintaining the flavor and quality of your Classic Plum Sauce. Once the sauce has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, Classic Plum Sauce can last for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

Serving Your Classic Plum Sauce

Classic Plum Sauce, with its sweet, sour, and slightly spicy flavor profile, is a versatile condiment that can enhance a variety of dishes. But the culinary experience can be further elevated when this delightful sauce is paired with the right foods. From appetizers to main courses and even desserts, the right pairings can transform your Classic Plum Sauce from a simple condiment to a gastronomic delight. Let’s explore some serving suggestions that can complement your Plum Sauce.

Appetizers

One of the most traditional uses of Classic Plum Sauce is as a dipping sauce for appetizers. Here are a few options:

Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls: The sweet and tangy flavor of Plum Sauce pairs wonderfully with the savory filling of spring rolls or egg rolls, enhancing their flavor and adding a delightful contrast.
Dumplings: Whether they’re filled with meat or vegetables, dumplings dipped in Plum Sauce take on a new dimension of flavor. The sauce adds a sweet and sour kick that complements the dumpling filling.
Crispy Tofu: For a vegetarian option, consider serving crispy tofu with Plum Sauce. The sauce adds a burst of flavor to the tofu, making it a tasty and satisfying appetizer.

Main Courses

Classic Plum Sauce can also be used to enhance the flavor of main courses. Here are a few suggestions:

Roasted or Grilled Meats: Brush Classic Plum Sauce onto roasted or grilled meats as a glaze. The sauce caramelizes beautifully, adding a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory meat.
Stir-Fries: Add a spoonful of Classic Plum Sauce to your stir-fries for a burst of flavor. The sauce works well with a variety of ingredients, from vegetables to chicken, beef, or tofu.
Noodles or Rice: Drizzle some Classic Plum Sauce over noodles or rice for a quick and easy flavor boost. The sauce adds a sweet and sour element that can elevate these simple dishes.

Desserts

While it might seem unconventional, Classic Plum Sauce can also be used in desserts. Here’s an idea:

Fruit Salad: Toss a fruit salad with a bit of Classic Plum Sauce for a unique dessert. The sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the fruit.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fruit for this recipe?

Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches or apricots. However, the flavor may vary slightly.

How long can I store this Sauce?

Plum Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Can I make Plum Sauce less sweet?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. However, keep in mind that the sweetness helps balance the sourness of the plums and vinegar.

Classic Plum Sauce is more than just a condiment; it’s a celebration of flavors that’s sure to delight. With these tips and suggestions, you’re ready to embark on your own culinary adventure with Plum Sauce. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the delicious journey begin!