Dried plums (dried prunes)

Description

Dried plums are meaty, slightly wrinkled fruits with a dark purple to black skin, featuring an intense sweet-and-sour flavor with hints of caramel and a slight wine-like tartness. They are a concentrated source of fiber, sorbitol, and antioxidants, providing potassium, vitamin K, and a moderate amount of B vitamins, which support digestion, regulate peristalsis, contribute to bone and heart health, and increase the feeling of fullness. In the kitchen, dried plums work well in baked goods, compotes, stews, and one-pot dishes, pairing excellently with meat (especially pork and poultry), cheeses, oatmeal, and salads, as well as serving as a snack or an ingredient in sauces and marinades after soaking. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place; they stay fresh longer in the refrigerator, and can be stored in the freezer for many months.