Mint Prunes
Mint Prunes offer a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and refreshing flavors, with the aromatic hint of mint and warm cinnamon enhancing the natural richness of the prunes. Perfect as a unique snack or a light dessert, they appeal to those who enjoy bold, herbal contrasts in dried fruit treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a hot pot, combine prunes, water to cover, vinegar, and cinnamon.
- Bring to a low boil.
- Cook until prunes are tender. Remove from heat.
- Add mint extract.
- Cover; let stand 12 hours. Chill in refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider soaking the prunes overnight before cooking. If you don't have mint extract, fresh mint leaves can be used instead; just add them during the cooking process for a more vibrant taste. Additionally, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar for a different acidity profile. This recipe is perfect for those looking to incorporate more vegan recipes into their diet.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these mint prunes as a unique dessert or snack on their own, or use them as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal. They pair beautifully with Linda Davis' Fantastic Zucchini Relish, making for a delightful contrast on a cheese platter. Consider serving them alongside grilled meats for an unexpected flavor combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. These prunes can also be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge as a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mint Prunes contains roughly 1974 calories, with 32g protein, 255g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (88% of the Daily Value), protein (64% of the Daily Value), and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 995mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh prunes instead of dried ones?
Fresh prunes, or plums, won't work the same way in this recipe. Dried prunes provide the concentrated sweetness and texture that are essential to this dish. If you prefer a fresher fruit option, consider adding fresh mint or a fruit salad as a side dish instead.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the prunes?
If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup while cooking. Be cautious with the amount, as the natural sweetness of the prunes is quite pronounced. Adjust according to your personal taste preference.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs. However, always check the labels of your ingredients, especially the vinegar and any extracts, to ensure they meet your specific dietary requirements.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).