Homemade Tangy Plum Sauce

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) ripe plums, pitted and chopped 500g (1.1 lb) ripe plums, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1/2 cup (120ml) rice vinegar 1/2 cup (120ml) rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 1/4 cup (60g) brown sugar 1/4 cup (60g) brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 star anise 1 star anise
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick) 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 80 kcal / 335 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 18g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the chopped plums, water, rice vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, star anise, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. 2.
   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the plums are soft and the sauce has thickened.
3. 3.
   Remove the star anise from the sauce and discard.
4. 4.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the sauce until smooth.
5. 5.
   If desired, strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining solids.
6. 6.
   Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to a jar or airtight container.
7. 7.
   Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Plums — Choose ripe plums for the best flavor. If the plums are not sweet enough, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar.
• Star anise — Be cautious when using star anise, as its flavor can be overpowering. Remove it from the sauce once it has infused enough flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoother sauce, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
• Adjust the sweetness and tanginess by adding more brown sugar or rice vinegar, according to your taste preferences.
• Add a pinch of Chinese five-spice powder for an extra layer of flavor.
• Use this Tangy Plum Sauce as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, or roasted meats.
• Brush it onto grilled chicken or pork for a delicious glaze.

Serving advice

Serve the Tangy Plum Sauce alongside your favorite Chinese dishes, such as Peking duck, stir-fried vegetables, or crispy tofu. It also pairs well with grilled meats and can be used as a condiment for sandwiches or wraps.

Presentation advice

Transfer the Tangy Plum Sauce to a small serving bowl or a sauce dish. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an attractive presentation.