Plum Sauce

Plum sauce, also known as Chinese plum sauce, is a tangy and sweet condiment commonly used in Asian cuisine. Made from ripe plums, ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices, this versatile sauce adds a burst of flavor to roasted meats, spring rolls, and stir-fries. It strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory with a hint of sourness from vinegar, making it an excellent dipping sauce or glaze. Whether you’re looking to elevate a simple meal or add complexity to a dish, homemade plum sauce is a delicious and easy way to incorporate rich, fruity flavors into your cooking.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ripe plums, pitted and chopped
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp five-spice powder (optional)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the plums: Wash and pit the plums, then chop them into small pieces. This will make the cooking and blending process easier.
2. Cook the sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped plums, brown sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, five-spice powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the water and stir to combine.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the sauce for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the plums have softened and broken down, and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Blend the sauce: Once the plums are fully softened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender, and blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Strain (optional): For an extra smooth sauce, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining skin or pulp, but this step is optional depending on your texture preference.
6. Cool and store: Let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to a jar or airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Plum sauce pairs beautifully with dishes like roast duck, pork, or chicken, and is also great for dipping egg rolls, spring rolls, or dumplings. This homemade version is fresh, flavorful, and customizable to suit your taste!