Are you looking for a condiment that can add a touch of sweetness and tang to your meals? Look no further than 1 Tbsp Plum Sauce, Rts. This flavorful sauce contains only 34 calories per serving, making it a healthy option to enhance your dishes.
But just how nutritious is Plum Sauce? One tablespoon provides 9 grams of carbohydrates, 8 grams of sugar, and a small amount of vitamin C. While it should be consumed in moderation due to its sugar content, Plum Sauce can be a tasty addition to a balanced diet.
In this article, we'll explore the benefits of using Plum Sauce in your meals, as well as some tips on how to use it and even make it at home.
What is Plum Sauce?
Plum Sauce is a thick and flavorful condiment that originated in Chinese cuisine. It is made from plums, sugar, vinegar, and various spices, and can range in consistency from runny to sticky. The sauce is commonly used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, and other appetizers, and can also be used to glaze meats and vegetables or as a marinade for tofu or chicken. While it contains sugar, Plum Sauce is a healthier alternative to other sweet condiments like honey mustard or barbecue sauce, and its unique flavor profile can add a delicious twist to a variety of dishes.
As mentioned earlier, Plum Sauce contains 34 calories in a tablespoon serving. It also provides 8 grams of sugar, 9 grams of carbohydrates, and a small amount of vitamin C. While it should be consumed in moderation, Plum Sauce is a low-fat condiment that can be a healthier alternative to other sauces that are high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
Benefits of Adding Plum Sauce to Your Meals
By using Plum Sauce in your meals, you can enjoy a variety of benefits. For one, its sweet and tangy flavor can add depth and complexity to your dishes. Additionally, Plum Sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used in different ways. It can be used as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce, making it a great pantry staple to have on hand. Lastly, Plum Sauce is a healthier alternative to other sweet condiments and sauces, making it a great option for those who are watching their sugar and fat intake.
How to Use Plum Sauce?
Plum Sauce can be used in a variety of ways to enhance your meals. Here are a few ideas: 1. Use it as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, dumplings, or chicken fingers. 2. Mix it with soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil to make a flavorful marinade for tofu or chicken.
Plum Sauce alongside Main Dishes
Plum Sauce can also be a great accompaniment to main dishes. Here are a few ways to use it: 1. Use it as a glaze for roasted pork tenderloin or chicken. 2. Drizzle it over stir-fry vegetables for a touch of sweetness and tang.
Plum Sauce: A Healthy Alternative to Other Sauces
Compared to other sweet condiments and sauces, Plum Sauce is a healthier option that can still add flavor to your dishes. Here are some examples: 1. Compared to barbecue sauce, which can contain up to 15 grams of sugar per tablespoon, Plum Sauce contains only 8 grams of sugar per tablespoon serving. 2. Compared to ketchup, which can contain high amounts of sodium, Plum Sauce is a low-sodium alternative that can still provide flavor to your dishes.
Making Plum Sauce at Home
Making Plum Sauce at home is easy and can be a fun way to experiment with different flavors. Here is a recipe to try: Ingredients: - 2 cups chopped plums
Plum Sauce as a Condiment or Marinade
As mentioned earlier, Plum Sauce can be used as a condiment or marinade. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 1. When using Plum Sauce as a condiment, pair it with dishes that can benefit from its sweet and tangy flavor, such as spring rolls or dumplings. 2. When using Plum Sauce as a marinade, combine it with other flavorful ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, or garlic.
Plum Sauce: A Popular Ingredient in Chinese Cuisine
Plum Sauce has a long history in Chinese cuisine and is commonly used in a variety of dishes. Here are some examples: 1. Kung Pao chicken: a popular Chinese dish that features tender chicken, peanuts, and vegetables in a spicy sauce. Plum Sauce can be used to balance out the spice and add a touch of sweetness. 2. Mu Shu pork: a classic Chinese dish that features shredded pork, vegetables, and scrambled eggs wrapped in thin pancakes. Plum Sauce is often served as a side dipping sauce.
Plum Sauce as a Flavorful Dip
One of the most common ways to use Plum Sauce is as a dip. Here are some dishes that can be elevated with Plum Sauce dip: 1. Spring rolls or egg rolls: Plum Sauce can be used as a dipping sauce to add a tangy and sweet flavor to these popular appetizers. 2. Vegetables: Plum Sauce can be paired with raw or cooked vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or peppers, for a flavorful snack.
Plum Sauce can add a unique and delicious flavor to a variety of dishes, making it a great condiment to keep on hand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plum Sauce
1. What is plum sauce?
Plum sauce is a sweet and tangy condiment made from plums, sugar, vinegar, and spices. It is commonly used in Asian cuisine as a dipping sauce for egg rolls, spring rolls, and other fried foods.
2. Is plum sauce healthy?
Plum sauce is relatively low in calories, with one tablespoon containing only 34 calories. However, it is high in sugar, so it should be consumed in moderation. Some store-bought plum sauces may also contain additives and preservatives, so it's important to read the ingredient list and choose a high-quality brand.
3. How do you use plum sauce?
Plum sauce can be used in a variety of ways. It is commonly served as a dipping sauce for savory dishes like egg rolls, spring rolls, and roasted meats. It can also be used as a marinade or glaze for meat, poultry, and fish. Some people even use it as a topping for ice cream or as a sweetener in cocktails.
4. How long does plum sauce last?
Unopened plum sauce can last for up to a year if stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within a few months.
5. Can I make my own plum sauce?
Yes, you can make your own plum sauce at home using fresh or frozen plums, sugar, vinegar, and spices. There are many recipes available online, and making your own sauce allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the sweetness and spiciness to fit your preferences.