Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs American plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or food processor
- Ice cream maker
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped plums, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
2. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the plums are soft and the liquid has thickened slightly.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Once cooled, transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.
5. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and mix well.
7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is completely chilled.
8. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions, until the sorbet is thick and creamy.
9. Transfer the sorbet to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 2 hours
- Freezing time: 2 hours
Temperature:
- Boiling: medium-high heat
- Simmering: low heat
- Chilling: room temperature
- Freezing: freezer temperature
Serving size:
- Makes about 1 quart of sorbet
- Serves 6-8 people
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- American plums can be substituted with any other variety of plums.
- Lemon juice can be substituted with lime juice.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Add a splash of rum or brandy for an adult version of the sorbet.
- Top with fresh berries or whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
Tips and tricks:
- Use ripe, juicy plums for the best flavor.
- Make sure to strain the puree to remove any solids for a smooth texture.
- For a softer sorbet, serve immediately after churning.
- For a firmer sorbet, freeze for several hours before serving.
Storage instructions:
- Store the sorbet in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- Sorbet does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sorbet in chilled bowls or glasses.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or sliced plums.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of sparkling wine or champagne for a festive occasion.
Suggested side dishes:
- This sorbet is a refreshing dessert on its own, but can also be served with a light salad or fruit platter.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sorbet is too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften before serving.
- If the sorbet is too soft, freeze for a longer period of time before serving.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash the plums thoroughly before using.
- Store the sorbet in the freezer at a safe temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Plums have been cultivated for thousands of years and are believed to have originated in China.
- American plums are a native species to North America and were traditionally used by Native Americans for food and medicine.
Flavor profiles:
- American plums have a sweet-tart flavor with a slightly floral aroma.
- This sorbet is sweet, tangy, and refreshing.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the sorbet as a light and refreshing dessert after a summer meal.
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Taste: Sweet, Tart, Fruity, Refreshing