Chilled Plum Soup

Chilled Plum Soup Recipe from Australia with Red Wine and Cream

Region / culture: Australia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Chilled Plum Soup is a refreshing and unique dish that is perfect for hot summer days. This soup combines the sweetness of ripe plums with warm spices and a touch of red wine for a complex and delicious flavor profile. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh plum slices, this soup is as beautiful as it is tasty.

History

Chilled fruit soups have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations found in many different cultures around the world. Plum soup is a popular dish in Eastern European countries such as Hungary and Poland, where it is often served as a dessert. This recipe puts a modern twist on the traditional dish, adding red wine and spices for a more complex flavor profile.

Ingredients

2 qt (1.89 liter) water
1 cup sugar
1 stalk cinnamon, crushed
0.5 tsp ground allspice
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
10 cup pitted and sliced red plums, about 5.5 lb (2.49 kg)
0.25 cup cornstarch
0.5 cup hot water
1 cup dry red wine, chilled
1 cup heavy cream, whipped
thinly sliced plums for garnish

How to prepare

In a large non-aluminum soup pot, combine the first five ingredients.
Bring to a boil and add the plums.
Simmer for 30 minutes and strain through a fine sieve.
Discard the solids.
Mix the cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry (thin paste).
Beat the slurry into the hot soup, stirring constantly.
Continuing to stir, bring the soup back to a boil, then remove from heat.
Chill the soup.
Just before serving, stir in the wine.
Top each serving with a spoonful of whipped cream and thinly sliced plums.

Variations

Add a splash of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Substitute peaches or nectarines for the plums for a different flavor profile.
Top with toasted nuts or granola for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe, juicy plums for the best flavor in this soup.

- Straining the soup after simmering ensures a smooth and silky texture.

- Chilling the soup before serving allows the flavors to meld together and creates a refreshing dish.

- Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Chilled Plum Soup can be served as a starter or a light dessert. Pair it with a crisp white wine for a perfect summer meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the plums with spices infuses the soup with flavor.

- Straining the soup creates a smooth texture.

- Chilling the soup before serving enhances the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different sweetness.

- Substitute almond or coconut milk for the heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Chilled Plum Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the wine and whipped cream just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each serving of Chilled Plum Soup with a sprig of fresh mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chilled Plum Soup with a light salad or grilled chicken for a complete meal. Serve with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chilled Plum Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chilled Plum Soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chilled Plum Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chilled Plum Soup contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chilled Plum Soup contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Plums are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. This soup also contains iron and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy in the form of whipped cream.

Summary

Chilled Plum Soup is a light and refreshing dish that is low in calories and fat. It is a good source of vitamin C and potassium.

Summary

Chilled Plum Soup is a unique and refreshing dish that is perfect for summer. With a combination of sweet plums, warm spices, and a touch of red wine, this soup is as delicious as it is beautiful. Top each serving with whipped cream and fresh plum slices for a stunning presentation.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Chilled Plum Soup. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe book that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the yellowed pages, my eyes fell upon the elegant script that detailed the ingredients and instructions for making this unique dish.

The recipe called for ripe plums, sugar, lemon juice, and a hint of cinnamon. It was a simple yet intriguing combination of flavors that I had never tried before. I couldn't resist the urge to give it a try, so I set out to gather the ingredients and get to work in the kitchen.

As I chopped the plums and simmered them in a pot with the sugar and lemon juice, the sweet aroma wafted through the air, filling the kitchen with a sense of anticipation. I watched as the plums softened and released their juices, turning into a vibrant purple liquid that promised a refreshing and delicious treat.

Once the soup had cooled, I placed it in the refrigerator to chill, allowing the flavors to meld together and intensify. When it was finally ready, I ladled the soup into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of cinnamon. The first spoonful was a revelation - the tartness of the plums balanced perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar, creating a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

I savored each spoonful, feeling a sense of accomplishment and pride in my ability to create such a delectable dish. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my repertoire, a beloved favorite that I would share with friends and family for years to come.

But the story of this Chilled Plum Soup didn't end there. As I shared the recipe with others, I discovered that it had a rich history of its own. It turned out that this dish had been a favorite of my own grandmother, who had learned to make it from a dear friend many years ago.

My grandmother had fond memories of making the soup with her friend, spending long afternoons in the kitchen chatting and laughing as they chopped plums and stirred the pot. The recipe had been passed down through generations, a treasured secret that had brought joy and comfort to all who had tasted it.

I felt a sense of connection to my own past as I continued to make the Chilled Plum Soup, knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been handed down through the years. Each time I made the soup, I felt a sense of nostalgia for the simpler times of my grandmother's youth, when life was slower and meals were made with love and care.

As I shared the recipe with my own grandchildren, I hoped that they would feel the same sense of wonder and curiosity that had inspired me to try something new all those years ago. I wanted them to know that behind every recipe lies a story, a history that connects us to our past and shapes our future.

And so, as I continue to make the Chilled Plum Soup, I do so with a heart full of memories and a spirit of adventure. For in the kitchen, I have found not just a place to cook, but a place to create, to connect, and to carry on the traditions that have shaped me into the person I am today. And for that, I am eternally grateful.