Traditional Plum Sauce

Name: Traditional Plum Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 kg plums ripe plums (pitted and chopped); 1 cup sugar (adjust based on plum sweetness); 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium); 1 tbsp grated ginger (fresh); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp cloves (ground)

60 min 12 servings Easy

All Recipes

A sweet and tangy plum sauce perfect for enhancing meat dishes or as a dipping sauce.

Prep

15 min

Cook

45 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Plum sauce, known as 'sauce aux prunes' in French, is a delightful addition to a variety of dishes. Its sweet and tangy flavour profile makes it a popular choice for glazing meats, serving as a dipping sauce, or even drizzling over vegetables. This versatile sauce originates from Chinese cuisine but has been adapted in many cultures around the world, including Quebec. It's particularly loved for its ability to enhance the taste of pork, chicken, and duck dishes.

Instructions

Prepare the plums

Pit and chop 1 kg of ripe plums into small pieces.

Pro tip: Use a sharp knife to easily remove the pits.

Combine ingredients

In a large saucepan, combine the chopped plums, 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp grated ginger, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves.

Pro tip: Adjust the sugar based on how sweet your plums are.

Cook the mixture

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the plums are soft and the sauce has thickened.

Pro tip: Stir more frequently towards the end to prevent sticking.

Blend the sauce

Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.

Pro tip: For a chunkier sauce, blend less or use a potato masher.

Taste and adjust seasoning

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. You may add more vinegar or sugar according to taste.

Pro tip: Balance the sweet and sour elements to your preference.

Store the sauce

Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator.

Pro tip: Letting the sauce sit overnight enhances the flavours.

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Tips & Tricks

Choose ripe, firm plums for the best flavour and consistency.
Adjust sugar levels based on the sweetness of the plums.
Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture.
Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sauce au prune?

Sauce au prune is a plum sauce, a sweet and tangy condiment often used with meats or as a dipping sauce.

How long does plum sauce last?

Plum sauce lasts up to two weeks when refrigerated in an airtight container.

Can plum sauce be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze plum sauce for up to six months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.

What dishes can I serve with plum sauce?

Plum sauce pairs well with roasted pork, duck, chicken, and is excellent as a dip for spring rolls.

How can I make plum sauce less sweet?

Reduce the amount of sugar and adjust with more vinegar to balance the flavours.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this traditional plum sauce alongside roasted meats or as a flavourful dip for spring rolls and dumplings. It pairs particularly well with pork and duck, accentuating their rich flavours. To make ahead, store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage, ensuring you always have this delicious condiment on hand.