PRESERVING STONE FRUIT AHEAD OF WINTER

Vuyile Madwantsi

WE’RE just a step ahead of the South African winter, but you might not be ready yet to let go of all the deliciousness of summer fruits.

These are the last couple of weeks to stock up on fresh stone fruit such as peaches, nectarines, and plums, and get creative in your kitchen.

Traditionally, autumn is the season of jam-making and bottling, so that summer produce can be preserved to brighten up the winter months.

Some of our favourite jams are made with stone fruit. Stone fruits are among the most versatile of fruits; and jams, jellies, and conserves are only one good way to preserve them.

For instance, peaches are also the hero ingredient in condiments such as chutney and atchar; and plums are the stars of sticky barbecue or Asian-style dipping sauces, marinades and glazes.

Storing stone fruit for winter is a common practice that has been used for centuries as a way to preserve these perishable fruits and extend their availability.

Drying stone fruit involves removing moisture from the fruit by exposing it to the sun or using a dehydrator, resulting in a sweet and chewy fruit that can be stored for months. Canning stone fruit involves cooking and sealing it in jars or cans with sugar syrup, which can also extend the shelf life.

Storing stone fruit in the winter is not only a way to extend their availability, but a way to enjoy its health benefits throughout the year.

Stone fruit is known to be rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A and potassium. They are also high in antioxidants, which can protect cells against damage from free radicals, reduce inflammation and support a healthy immune system.

However, you don’t have to be a stickler for tradition to get into the fun of making the joy of stone fruit last until the next summer. There are plenty of contemporary methods and uses that will wow your family and friends.

Here are some ideas:

Dessert

Stone fruit syrups and cordials can be used to top desserts, top smoothies, add flavourings to cocktails, or as a dessert ingredient.

Smoothies

Preserved peaches are always a delight in classic pies and cobblers or simply topped with ice cream. They can also be grilled to add to salads or grain bowls, blended in your morning smoothie, or chopped up for salsa.

Boozy fruit jars

Create some alcoholic fruit jars for enjoyable winter gatherings. Consider soaking nectarines and brandied peaches in red wine or vodka, or plums in gin.

This is such a simple adult treat – just put washed fruit pieces in sterile, sealable jars with your favourite booze and store them in a cool, dark spot.

Boozy fruit jars can remain for several months in airtight jars since the alcohol works as a preservative.

However, it’s crucial to learn how to sterilise your jars and bottles during this process . This is simple to do at home, according to Le Parfait, a French glassmaking company that has been making jars, bottles and terrines for food preservation since the 1930s.

During your process of preserving your fruit, it’s vital to check the condition of your lids and seals as well as the glass on the bottles’ and jars’ rims for any chips or cracks. The state and calibre of your jars and bottles are important since you want an airtight fit.