They glow like little suns on the tree and are for many the highlight of the fruit harvest: Mirabelle plums. They are often confused with yellow plums or greengages, but the Mirabelle is a very unique, particularly fine subspecies. They are small, round, and almost burst with sweetness. Here you can find out why you should definitely grab them in August and how to best process these delicate fruits.
What you should know about Mirabelle plums
The Mirabelle plum is an extremely seasonal pleasure. Its peak season is essentially limited to the month of August. In this short window, you can get them fresh and regional – often even directly from the tree in your garden or from the farmer next door.
Since they are so small, they are usually eaten directly by hand. But beware: there is a pit hidden inside, and as your graphic warns: The pit must be removed before further processing to protect your kitchen appliances and teeth.
Nutrients & Effects
Despite their small size, Mirabelle plums are packed with power. They are rich in antioxidants, which means they can protect your body cells from oxidative stress.
Anyone who has problems with a sluggish bowel can rejoice: the Mirabelle plum promotes digestion naturally. With only 49 calories per 100 grams, they are also a light snack that satisfies sweet cravings without being heavy.
Taste & Consistency
Mirabelle plums are famous for their taste: they are extremely sweet and aromatic. The flesh is soft, juicy, and in fully ripe fruits, it separates easily from the pit. The skin is thin and crunches pleasantly when bitten into.
But beware: they have a short shelf life. Once picked, they quickly lose their firmness and aroma, which is why you should enjoy them promptly.
Preparation with kitchen appliances
Processing the small fruits can be tedious (pitting them!), but your kitchen helpers make it worthwhile:
- Blender: According to your overview, Mirabelle plums are good for smoothies! Since they are very sweet, you don't need any additional sugar or banana. Puree the (pitted!) fruits with some yogurt or oat milk for a creamy summer drink.
- Bread maker: Since the season is so short, jam is the best solution. Many bread makers have a jam program. Put the pitted fruits with gelling sugar into it and let the machine stir and cook – no burning, no splashing.
- Slow Juicer / Juicer: Pure Mirabelle juice is pure gold, but very sweet. It's best to mix the Mirabelle plums in the slow juicer with tart apples or a little lemon. Important: Carefully check that there are no pits left, otherwise you will damage the pressing mechanism!
- Air Fryer: A quick Mirabelle crumble for two people? Put the halved fruits into a small ovenproof dish, sprinkle streusel over them, and bake the whole thing in the air fryer. In 10-15 minutes you'll have a warm dessert.
- Ice cube maker: Puree the raw Mirabelle plums into a fine pulp and freeze it in an ice cube maker. These "fruit bombs" are brilliant in winter to refine your porridge or yogurt with a hint of summer.
Shopping & Storage
When buying, look for plump fruits without bruises. The skin should have a sunny yellow to slightly reddish color ("sun-kissed cheeks").
Since they have a short shelf life, they should be stored unwashed in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator and consumed within 2–3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze them wonderfully (preferably already pitted).
Use in the kitchen
- The classic: Mirabelle plum cake from the baking sheet with yeast dough and crumbles – a must in August.
- Compote: Simply boil briefly with cinnamon and water, perfect with rice pudding or pancakes.
- Savory: Cooked as a chutney with onions and vinegar, they go wonderfully with cheese platters or game dishes.
Fun Facts
- Lorraine: The Lorraine region in France is world-famous for its Mirabelle plums. About 70% of the world's production is harvested there.
- Origin of the name: The name probably comes from the Italian "mirabella", which means "beautiful".
- Schnapps idea: Since Mirabelle plums contain so much fruit sugar, they are ideal for distilling fruit brandy (Mirabelle plum brandy).
Conclusion
The Mirabelle plum is the sweetest temptation of late summer. It is an absolute delight regionally and seasonally, even if it has a short shelf life. It is good for smoothies in a blender and promotes digestion. Just always remember: The pit must be removed before you process them in your appliances!
