Stewed prunes are an excellent source of vitamin, minerals and fiber. It is also very beneficial in treating constipation problems. There are many ways to prepare stewed prunes. Read on to know more.
Prunes are sweet, soft, chewy, and have a deep taste. They are nothing but dried plum, and are an excellent source of vitamin K, minerals, cholesterol lowering agents, and fiber. They are either sold with their pits or are pitted.
Available throughout the year, these dried fruits are considered to be old men’s food for alleviating constipation. Prunes are used as laxatives by herbalists and followers of alternative medicine. Stewing is an excellent way of including this highly nutritious dried fruit in your diet.
Stewed prunes are very beneficial for people who frequently experience irregular bowel movement. Prunes are loaded with dietary fiber, which is essential for good digestive health. In addition to fiber-content, some active ingredients of prunes serve as colonic stimulants. They induce contractions of the intestinal tract and help in easy passing of stool.
► Prunes should always be kept in airtight containers. You can also keep them in the refrigerator to extend their freshness. In case your prunes have dried, soak them in hot water for a few minutes to freshen them up before stewing.
► You can also soak them in cold water or juice. Soaking them for an hour or two before cooking, shortens the cooking duration. Prunes soaked in fruit juice impart a very refreshing, fruity flavor.
Ingredients
2 cups pitted prunes
2½ cup water
Preparation
Add the prunes to a medium-sized pan and add water. Heat on medium high and once the water boils, turn the heat on low. Simmer for 25 minutes.Take some prunes and check if done. If they turn soft and tender, remove from heat and allow them to cool down. Prune stew is ready to be served.
Ingredients
1 lb prunes
2-3 cup water
½ cup orange juice
¼ cup sugar or to taste (optional)
Preparation
Soak pitted prunes in water and keep them overnight in the refrigerator. Next day, add them along with water in a saucepan with ½ cup orange juice. Heat the prunes and bring it to a boiling temperature. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 – 20 minutes. Add sugar, if using, and boil for 2 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it cool. Serve.
Ingredients
1 cup prunes
1½ cup water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Preparation
Add the prunes in a saucepan. To this, pour 1½ cups of water and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Boil the mixture first and then simmer for 25 minutes. When done, turn off the heat and allow it to cool down. Serve with lemon slices.
Ingredients
½ lb prunes
2 cup water
½ cup sugar
1 tbsp corn flour
Preparation
Soak the prunes overnight in water. Next day, cook prunes till they soften (about 15 minutes) and add sugar. In a small bowl, make a thin flour paste with water. Add this in the saucepan containing prunes. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, while stirring continuously. Remove from heat and allow it to cool. Serve cold.
Ingredients
½ lb prunes
1 thinly sliced orange
1 cup port wine, like ruby port
1” stick of cinnamon
A generous pinch ground nutmeg
2 – 3 tablespoons sugar
1 cup water
Preparation
Place all the ingredients in a large pan and bring it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, turn the heat low and let it simmer for 25 minutes. Turn off the heat when your prunes are soft and juicy. Adjust water if you need more sauce. Let it cool and serve cold.
Stewed prune is very versatile. It can be served with yogurt, pancakes, waffles, milk, oatmeal, etc. You can add your own twists to these recipes by adding maple syrup, honey or brown sugar, if you like. You can also use spices like cloves or flavor it with vanilla beans. Add them while soaking or boiling for maximum flavor.
Too much of anything is bad. That goes for stewed prunes as well. If eaten in excess, it can cause diarrhea. So, limit your consumption to 1 serving size only, and enjoy the benefits of prunes.