10 Delicious Damson Recipes: From Pies to Preserves

Damson plums, also known as Mirabelle plums or small plums, are a lesser-known cousin of common plums. They have a slightly tart taste and firm texture that makes them perfect for various cooking purposes. With their unique flavor profile and nutritional benefits, these little fruits can be easily incorporated into many recipes. This article will share 10 delicious damson recipes, from pies to preserves. Let’s dive in and explore the culinary magic of this humble fruit.

Damson Jam

Start with a classic yet versatile jam that goes well with biscuits, bread, scones, or even ice cream. Damson jam requires around 1kg of damsons, equal parts sugar, and the juice from half a lemon. Wash and pit your damsons, then combine them in a large pan with an equal amount of white granulated sugar. Cook on medium heat until the mixture turns syrupy and thickens, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Once the desired consistency is reached, add the lemon juice for acidity and flavor. Transfer the jam into sterilized jars while it’s still hot, leaving some space at the top. Seal the jars, and let them cool on a wire rack. Damson jam can be stored in a dark place for up to a year.

Damson Cobbler

This easy cobbler is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of damsons with a crispy pastry topping. You will need 1kg of damsons, equal amounts of granulated sugar and water, plus cinnamon for flavoring. Pit and slice the damsons, then combine them in a large pan with sugar and water. Cook on medium heat until the fruit softens and the mixture thickens slightly.

Prepare the cobbler topping by mixing equal parts plain flour, sugar, and butter. Add a pinch of salt, cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of cold water to form a dough. Roll out the dough on a floured surface, cut into desired shapes, then place them over the damson mixture in an ovenproof dish. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 35-45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a scrumptious dessert. The damson cobbler is best enjoyed the same day it’s baked but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Damson Chutney

Chutneys are perfect for enhancing the flavors of various dishes, and damson chutney is no exception. To make this tangy accompaniment, you will need 1kg of pitted damsons, equal parts vinegar and sugar, a pinch of ground ginger, black peppercorns, dried red chillies, cloves, allspice berries, and 2 cinnamon sticks.

Place the damsons, vinegar, and spices in a large pan. Bring to a boil, then simmer until the damsons become tender and the liquid has reduced by half. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add the sugar, stirring until it dissolves completely. Cook for another 10-15 minutes or until the chutney thickens. Pour the chutney into sterilized jars while hot, leaving some space at the top. Seal and store in a cool dark place for up to two years.

This versatile damson chutney is perfect for accompaniments like cheese platters, meats, or as a condiment for curries. Its long-lasting shelf life makes it an ideal choice for stocking your pantry or giving away as gifts.

Damson Crumble Muffins

Take your breakfast routine to the next level with these delicious damson crumble muffins. You will need 150g of pitted damsons, 175g self-raising flour, 100g soft brown sugar, 50g butter, a pinch of salt, 2 eggs, 50ml milk, and for the crumble topping: 35g plain flour, 35g soft brown sugar, 25g chilled unsalted butter. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F) and prepare a muffin tin with paper liners.

Mix the damsons with 50g of soft brown sugar in a pan and cook for about 8-10 minutes, until the fruit is softened. Combine the flour, sugar, butter, and salt to make the muffin batter. Whisk the eggs and milk together and slowly mix them into the dry ingredients, adding damsons and their juice. Spoon the mixture into your prepared muffin tins, filling each about two-thirds full.

For the crumble topping, combine flour, sugar, and butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this over the top of each muffin. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Allow the muffins to cool slightly before enjoying.

Damson & Vanilla Sorbet

For a refreshing summer dessert, try this delicious damson and vanilla sorbet. You will need 500g of pitted damsons, 1 vanilla pod (cut open lengthwise), 300ml water, 300ml sugar syrup (200ml water boiled with 100g sugar until thickened), and a pinch of salt. Blend the damsons with half of the sugar syrup until smooth. Add the remaining sugar syrup and the vanilla pod.

Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker following the manufacturer’s instructions or freeze it in a shallow container. Stir the sorbet every hour for 3-4 hours, breaking up any ice crystals that form on top. Once completely frozen and creamy, remove the vanilla pod, scoop out the sorbet, and serve in chilled bowls with your favorite garnish.

Damson Clafoutis

This French dessert is a delightful way to enjoy damsons. You will need 600g of pitted damsons, 3 large eggs, 150g granulated sugar, 375ml full-fat milk, a pinch of salt, and 250g plain flour. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease a 23cm round baking dish or pie dish.

Place the damsons in the prepared baking dish, sprinkling some sugar over them if you prefer a sweeter taste. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining granulated sugar, salt, milk, and flour until smooth. Pour this mixture over the damsons, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed. Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that will impress your guests. The clafoutis can be enjoyed as soon as it’s baked, but leftovers are best consumed within 24 hours.

Damson Preserves

Preserving damsons in jars allows you to enjoy their unique flavors year-round. To do this, wash and pit your damsons before sterilizing glass jars and lids. Place the pitted damsons in a large pan with an equal amount of sugar, stirring frequently until the fruit is softened and the syrup thickens. Add a splash of brandy or liqueur for extra flavor if desired.

Transfer the damson mixture into sterilized jars, leaving some space at the top. Seal the jars while still hot, then store them in a dark place for up to six months. Serve damson preserves over pancakes, ice cream, or yogurt for a tangy treat. The jam can also be used as a spread on bread or served alongside cheeses and charcuterie boards.

Damson Pies

Lastly, the humble damson pie is a classic dessert that showcases the sweet-tart flavor of these underappreciated fruits. You will need 1kg of pitted damsons, equal parts granulated sugar and butter for the filling, along with a few tablespoons of cornflour and water to thicken it. For the crust, use your favorite pastry or pie dough recipe.

Prepare a double-crust pie dish by lining the bottom with the pastry and decorating the top with latticework or leaves cut from leftover dough. Combine damsons, sugar, butter, cornflour, and water in a large pan until the fruit is softened and the mixture thickens. Pour this mixture into your pie dish and cover with the remaining pastry before baking according to the crust recipe instructions.

Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful finish to your damson pie experience. The finished pie can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days, making it perfect for entertaining guests or sharing with loved ones.

In conclusion, damsons are a versatile fruit that can enhance various recipes and bring new flavors to your culinary adventures. From preserves and chutneys to pies and cakes, incorporating damsons into your cooking repertoire will undoubtedly broaden your horizons and add delightful twists to everyday dishes. Enjoy these 10 delicious damson recipes for a tantalizing gastronomic journey that goes beyond the ordinary.