Swap Plums with Apricot, Asian Pear, Persimmon, Peaches, and Nectarines.
Apricots, peaches, you name it.
For cooking, Asian Pear also works well - adjust the amount to taste since it may be slightly stronger or milder.
Plums are off the table? No stress.
We've got the scoop on the top five swaps that'll save your recipe.
Fresh or dried, these alternatives will keep your dishes deliciously on track.
Can't find plums in the grocery aisle?
From sweet treats to savory dishes, these substitutes are golden.
Apricots, peaches, you name it. They bring the flavor without hijacking your dish's vibe.
Trust us, your kitchen experiments are about to get a whole lot more exciting.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Plums
Plums are delicious stone fruits known for their sweet and juicy flavor.
However, if you don't have plums on hand or want to try different flavors in your recipes, there are several substitutes available.
| Substitute | Key Characteristics | Proper Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Apricot | Similar sweet and tangy flavor; slightly smaller and more golden-orange in color | Use an equal amount of apricots as a substitute for plums |
| Asian Pear | Crisp and juicy texture with a subtly sweet taste; provides a refreshing alternative | Use an equal amount of Asian pears as a substitute for plums |
| Persimmon | Sweet and honey-like flavor with a custard-like texture; adds a unique twist to dishes | Use an equal amount of persimmons as a substitute for plums |
| Peaches | Juicy and sweet flavor with a slightly fuzzy skin; offers a similar stone fruit experience | Use an equal amount of peaches as a substitute for plums |
| Nectarines | Smooth-skinned and slightly firmer than a plum; has a sweet and tangy flavor | Use an equal amount of nectarines as a substitute for plums |
Here is a closer look at each option:
1 - Apricot
No matter the type of apricot, it can be substituted for plums.
If you use canned ones, drain them first before using them.
This also applies to fresh apricots.
When substituting this fruit for plums, keep in mind that they are very sweet and tart at the same time.
They also have a soft texture, making them great for baking and cooking.
The apricot's juice can be made into jams and jellies.
If you are looking for a shortcut to using apricots, you can use them as an ingredient in baked desserts that require plums.
All you have to do is follow any recipes you might have on hand.
- Key Characteristics: Apricots have a similar sweet and tangy flavor to plums. While slightly smaller and more golden-orange in color, they can be used as a substitute to provide a similar taste profile to your dishes.
- Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of apricots as a substitute for plums. Adjust the quantity based on your recipe requirements.
2 - Asian Pear
Similar to other fruits, Asian pears come in many varieties.
You can tell whether or not an Asian pear is ripe by touching it and smelling it.
If the fruit gives a bit, then this means it's ripe and ready to eat.
If you use them as a substitute for plums, make sure you remove their skin first.
This is because it can change the texture of your dish if you keep it on.
Also, make sure to remove its core before using it as well.
Although Asian pears are very crisp, they are also great substitutes for apples in any recipe.
- Key Characteristics: Asian pears have a crisp and juicy texture with a subtly sweet taste. They provide a refreshing alternative to plums and can add a unique twist to your recipes.
- Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of Asian pears as a substitute for plums. Adjust the quantity based on your recipe requirements.
3 - Persimmon
This fruit is extremely popular in Asia. It's sometimes known as the 'kaki fruit'.
However, there are two main types of persimmons that you should know about.
The first type is the Hachiya Persimmon which has a heart shape when viewed from above.
When this fruit ripens, it can be almost impossible to eat.
This is because its texture is very tender and may taste like uncooked dough.
The second type of persimmon is the Fuyu Persimmon, and it has a completely different appearance than Hachiya Persimmons.
It's typically round and squat in shape, and it also has a crunchier surface texture.
Even if it's ripe, Fuyu Persimmons can be eaten somewhat firm.
People commonly eat persimmons with cream cheese or feta cheese.
It can also be used in salads.
- Key Characteristics: Persimmons have a sweet and honey-like flavor with a custard-like texture. Although different from plums, they offer a unique taste experience and can bring a nice twist to your dishes.
- Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of persimmons as a substitute for plums. Adjust the quantity based on your recipe requirements.
4 - Peaches
Peaches are sweet, juicy, and sometimes used as an alternative to nectarines.
Like Asian pears, peaches are great to use in any baked dessert that requires plums.
If you want something a little different for breakfast, you can also use peaches in your oatmeal.
All you have to do is make the oatmeal according to the package directions and top it with fresh peaches when serving.
If you are looking for an exotic snack, why not try some peach salsa? All you have to do is combine fresh chopped peaches with some red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice to make this dish.
Just make sure you keep this dip in the fridge for at least half an hour before serving it.
- Key Characteristics: Peaches have a juicy and sweet flavor with a slightly fuzzy skin. While not identical to plums, they are a close relative and can provide a similar stone fruit experience in your recipes.
- Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of peaches as a substitute for plums. Adjust the quantity based on your recipe requirements.
5 - Nectarines
Nectarines are similar to peaches but do not have any fuzz on them.
If you want to use nectarines in any baked desserts requiring plums, make sure you remove their skin.
Nectarines are also great for cooking and making fruit salads.
If you want to use them as a salad ingredient, we recommend adding some sharp cheddar cheese and pecans to your dish.
Nectarines can be used in overnight oats too.
Just make the oatmeal according to the package directions and top it with some nectarine slices when serving.
If you are looking for something a little different, try making nectarine salsa.
To prepare this delicious dish, all you have to do is combine chopped nectarines with red onion, jalapeno, cilantro, and lime juice.
Just make sure to keep it in the fridge for at least half an hour before serving.
- Key Characteristics: Nectarines are smooth-skinned and slightly firmer than plums. They have a sweet and tangy flavor that is reminiscent of plums but with a slightly different texture.
- Proper Ratio: Use an equal amount of nectarines as a substitute for plums. Adjust the quantity based on your recipe requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apricots, peaches, you name it. Use it at a 1:1 ratio in any recipe that calls for Plums.
You have several options. Apricot matches the original closely, while Asian Pear brings a slightly different character.
Either works at a 1:1 ratio.
Yes. Check your grocery store's international or health food aisle for widely available options.
Many substitutes are pantry staples that are easier to source than the original.
Forgiving dishes - soups, stews, casseroles, and sauces - are the best starting point. They mask small texture or flavor differences better than dishes where the ingredient is the star.