Prune Crock
A sweet and tangy prune crock featuring tender prunes soaked in spiced tea and vinegar, perfect as a condiment or dessert accompaniment for those who enjoy fruity, flavorful preserves.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place prunes in a 2-quart glass jar.
- Stir sugar and hot tea together in a saucepan.
- Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.
- Pour the hot mixture over the prunes in the jar.
- Cover the jar and let stand for 24 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using a fruit-infused tea instead of regular black tea. If you prefer a less sweet outcome, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup. Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth. Ensure the prunes are fully submerged in the liquid for even absorption. If you need a quick alternative, use dried apricots or figs instead of prunes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the prunes as a unique topping for vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a delightful dessert. They also pair wonderfully with cheese platters, especially creamy cheeses. For a festive touch, serve them alongside French Canadian Pork Pie(A Koljonen Christmas Breakfast Tradition) during holiday gatherings. Garnish with fresh mint for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store the prune crock in a cool, dark place, ideally in the refrigerator after the initial 24 hours. It can last for up to two weeks. If the mixture thickens, simply stir in a little warm water before serving. To enjoy cold, chill the jar in the fridge and serve the prunes as a refreshing snack or dessert.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Prune Crock contains roughly 882 calories, with 11g protein, 181g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (135% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 38g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 will not yield the same texture or flavor as dried ones. The drying process concentrates the sugars and flavors, making them ideal for this recipe. Stick with pitted dried prunes for best results.
How long can I let the prunes sit in the mixture?
Letting the prunes sit for 24 hours is sufficient for flavor absorption. However, if you prefer a stronger taste, you can allow them to steep for up to a week in the refrigerator, shaking the jar occasionally to mix the ingredients.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe. Just ensure you use a larger jar and adjust the cooking time if needed. The boiling step should remain the same, but make sure everything is well mixed before pouring it over the prunes.
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).