Picking a ripe plum involves assessing its feel, texture, and smell. Here’s a guide to help you choose the perfect plum:
How to Determine Plum Ripeness
To pick a ripe plum, consider the following:
-
Feel and Texture:
- Softness is Key: A ripe plum will feel soft and will "give" slightly when you press it gently.
- Avoid Squishy Plums: An overripe plum will feel very soft and squishy, and may even be bruised or damaged. According to the reference, these are the plums that might "splat on the ground".
-
Smell Test:
- Sweet and Fruity: A ripe plum should have a sweet and fruity aroma. If it lacks a smell or smells sour, it's not ripe yet.
Summary Table of Plum Ripeness
| Characteristic | Ripe Plum | Overripe Plum | Underripe Plum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feel | Soft, gives gently | Very soft, squishy | Firm |
| Smell | Sweet, fruity | May smell too strong or fermented | Lacks aroma or is sour |
By paying attention to these characteristics, you can easily select ripe and delicious plums.
