Plum Soup with Cinnamon and Cloves
Medium
Difficulty
High
Costs
20 minutes
Cooking Time
8
Servings
Description

A chilled fruit soup is a perfect second or third course—or maybe even a starter on its own, particularly in the summer when hot things may be too heavy to spur anyone’s appetite. Although we’ve been known to serve this dish in shot glasses, or even white wine glasses, it also works well the old-fashioned way: with a bowl and spoon. In that case, have a baguette at the table, too. And if you’re feeling adventurous and have some buttery shortbread on hand, sweeten some plain yogurt with maple syrup and use it to garnish this tasty soup for a different twist on dessert.

Instructions
  1. Combine the water, plums, nutmeg, salt, cinnamon stick, and cloves in a large saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
  2. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer slowly until the fruit is quite soft, about 20 minutes.
  3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the plums to a large blender. Crank the heat to high under the saucepan and boil the remaining liquid until reduced by half. Discard the cinnamon stick and cloves.
  4. Pour the reduced liquid into the blender. Add the sugar and wine.
  5. Cover the blender, remove the lid’s center knob, place a clean kitchen towel over the opening, and blend until smooth. Pour the puree into a large bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
  6. Whisk in the sour cream—or add the sour cream to the blender canister and blend until smooth. Cover and chill again for at least 3 hours before serving.
Ingredients
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 pounds red or black plums, halved
  • 0.25 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • One 4-inch cinnamon stick
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 0.5 cup sugar
  • 0.5 cup medium-dry red wine, such as a Pinot Noir or red Friuli
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
Profile photo of IKY Official Profile
50 IKY Points
IKY Managers
@iky-official-profile
Joined Jan 2024 • Active 8 weeks ago