Can Plum

What Is Cherry Plum?

Cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera) is the first plum variety to appear at markets in spring. Small, round, firm, and green-skinned, this plum is noticeably sour before it ripens.

Considered a herald of spring, cherry plum is traditionally eaten fresh in its green-firm state, dipped in salt. As it stays on the tree, it turns yellow and red, growing sweeter and turning into a table plum.

Nutritional Value of Cherry Plum

As an unripe plum, cherry plum is a low-calorie (about 40 kcal per 100 grams) and fibrous fruit; as its tartness suggests, it is rich in vitamin C and organic acids. Since verified data specific to the green-sour form is limited, values are approximated based on the plum profile.

What Are the Benefits of Cherry Plum?

With its vitamin C, fiber, and organic acid content, cherry plum is a refreshing spring fruit that can be considered part of a balanced diet. Being very tart, eating too much of it may upset the stomach.

This information is general; cherry plum is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Cherry Plum?

Fresh cherry plum is vivid green, firm, and shiny-skinned; those starting to yellow have begun to sweeten. Wrinkled, softened, and spotted fruit has lost its freshness.

• Skin should be vivid green, firm, and shiny
• Wrinkled, spotted, and softened fruit should be discarded
• If a sweet plum is wanted, choose ones that have turned yellow-red

How to Store Cherry Plum?

Green-firm cherry plum keeps its freshness for a few days in the refrigerator; the cold slows ripening, keeping the plum green and firm. At room temperature it gradually yellows and sweetens.

Using Cherry Plum in the Kitchen

Cherry plum is mostly eaten fresh in its green state, dipped in salt; it is also added to salads for its tartness and, in some regions, to sour-sauced dishes. Its ripe yellow form is also suitable for jam and compote.

Why Is Cherry Plum Dipped in Salt?

Salt balances the plum's sharp tartness and rounds out its flavor; that's why green cherry plum is traditionally eaten dipped in a pinch of salt.

Is Cherry Plum Used in Salad?

Yes; finely chopped green cherry plum can be added to shepherd's salad and greens to give a refreshing tartness.

Which Recipes Use Cherry Plum?

Salted fresh cherry plum, tart salads, and, from its ripe form, plum jam and compote are its best-known uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does cherry plum appear?

It appears in spring, before other plums, and is considered a herald of spring; during this period it is found green-firm and sour.

Why is cherry plum sour?

Being an unripe plum, it contains high organic acid; as it ripens, the acids turn into sugar and the plum sweetens.

What happens when cherry plum turns yellow?

Turning yellow and red indicates it has ripened; at this stage its tartness decreases, its sweetness increases, and it becomes a table plum.

Can cherry plum pits be eaten?

No; the hard pit is not edible. In green plums the pit may still be soft, but it should still not be consumed.

Can everyone eat cherry plum?

For most people it is a refreshing snack; however, being very tart, eating too much can upset sensitive stomachs, so moderate consumption is recommended.