Plum juice is a refreshing and nutritious drink that's perfect for a summer day or any time you crave a fruity, flavorful beverage.

Made from ripe plums, this juice is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound fresh plums (about 5-6 plums)

- 2 cups water

- 2-3 tablespoons sugar (optional, adjust to taste)

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a tangy twist)

Directions:

Prepare the Plums: Begin by washing the plums thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residue. Cut each plum in half and carefully remove the pits. You can leave the skins on for added nutrients and color, or peel them if you prefer a smoother juice.

Cook the Plums: Place the plum halves into a medium saucepan. Add 2 cups of water to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the plums simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes. The plums should become tender and begin to break apart. This step helps to release the juices and flavors from the plums.

Blend the Mixture: After the plums have softened, transfer them to a blender using a slotted spoon. Blend the mixture until smooth. You may need to add a little of the cooking water to help with blending if the mixture is too thick. This process ensures a smooth, consistent texture for your juice.

Strain the Juice: To separate the juice from the pulp, place a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth over a large bowl or pitcher. Pour the blended plum mixture into the strainer, pressing down with a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. This step removes the fibrous bits, resulting in a clear, smooth juice. Discard the leftover pulp or use it in other recipes like smoothies or baking.

Sweeten and Flavor: Taste your freshly strained plum juice. Depending on your preference and the sweetness of your plums, you may want to add sugar. Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of sugar, adjusting the amount to suit your taste. If you enjoy a slightly tangy flavor, add a tablespoon of lemon juice, which also enhances the color and freshness of the juice.

Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the plum juice for at least 1 hour to allow it to cool and flavors to meld. Serve the chilled juice over ice or straight from the fridge for a refreshing drink.

Health Benefits:

Plum juice offers several health benefits that make it a great addition to your diet. Plums are rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin. Vitamin K, also present in plums, is essential for bone health and proper blood clotting. Additionally, plums contain antioxidants such as polyphenols, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.

So, Lykkers, enjoying homemade plum juice is a simple and delicious way to incorporate the health benefits of this fruit into your daily routine.