Fresh plum
Description
Fresh plums have a shiny, smooth skin in shades of purple, blue, red, or yellow, a soft, juicy interior, and a sweet-tart, slightly astringent flavor that changes with ripeness. They are a source of fiber, vitamins (especially C and K), minerals such as potassium, and antioxidants, including anthocyanins; regular consumption of plums supports digestion, helps control blood sugar levels, and positively affects the circulatory system while being moderately low in calories. In the kitchen, fresh plums are suitable for salads, desserts, cakes, and jams, pair excellently with cheeses and meats (e.g., roasted poultry and pork), and are great for stewing, grilling, and smoothies. Store unripe fruits at room temperature until they ripen, place ripe ones in the refrigerator for 3–5 days in a breathable container, and wash just before consumption; for longer storage, freeze them after pitting or prepare preserves.