As a gardening and landscaping expert, I understand the frustration of dealing with pits when enjoying plums. Luckily, there are a few easy ways to remove pits from plums, making your snacking experience much more enjoyable.
1. Knife Method:
– Start by washing the plum thoroughly to remove any dirt or wax.
– Hold the plum firmly in one hand and use a sharp knife to make a vertical cut around the circumference of the fruit.
– Gently twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them.
– Locate the pit, which is usually located towards the center of the plum.
– Carefully cut around the pit, keeping the knife as close to the pit as possible to remove as little flesh as necessary.
– Once the pit is completely cut out, you can discard it and enjoy your pit-free plum!
2. Plum Pitter:
– If you find yourself frequently needing to remove pits from plums, investing in a plum pitter can be a worthwhile option.
– Plum pitters are handheld tools specifically designed for removing pits from plums and similar fruits.
– To use a plum pitter, simply place the plum in the pitter’s chamber and squeeze the handles together.
– The pitter will remove the pit while leaving the plum intact, ready to be enjoyed.
3. Freezing Method:
– Another easy way to remove pits from plums is by using the freezing method.
– Start by washing the plums and patting them dry.
– Place the plums in a single layer on a baking sheet or tray and freeze them until they are solid.
– Once frozen, remove the plums from the freezer and allow them to thaw slightly, just enough so they are still firm but not completely frozen.
– Using your fingers or a small knife, gently pry open the plum along the natural seam and remove the pit.
– The freezing method makes it easier to remove the pit without damaging the flesh of the plum.
4. Boiling Method:
– If you prefer a softer texture for your plums, the boiling method can be a good option.
– Start by washing the plums and making a small, shallow cut around the circumference of each fruit.
– Place the plums in a pot of boiling water for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
– Using a slotted spoon, remove the plums from the boiling water and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to cool.
– Once the plums are cool enough to handle, gently squeeze each plum, and the pit should easily pop out through the cut you made earlier.
Remember, removing pits from plums can be a messy process, so it’s a good idea to have a cutting board, knife, or pitter, as well as a bowl or plate to collect any juices or mess. Experiment with different methods to find the one that works best for you and enjoy your pit-free plums!
