Prunes

Prunes are simply plums that have been carefully dried, concentrating their natural sweetness into a rich, chewy fruit that has been enjoyed for thousands of years. Drying fruit is one of humanity's oldest methods of preservation, allowing the harvest to be savored long after the growing season has ended. Today, many of the world's finest prunes are produced in California, where the warm, dry climate is especially well suited to growing prune plums.

Though often appreciated as a wholesome snack, prunes are surprisingly versatile in the kitchen. Their deep, caramel-like sweetness pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grain dishes, baked goods, and fruit compotes, while they add moisture and natural sweetness to muffins, cakes, and quick breads. Prunes are also rich in dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, making them as nourishing as they are flavorful.

Carefully dried without sacrificing their natural character, quality prunes remain soft, tender, and intensely fruity. LocalHarvest makes it easy to find prunes from nearby orchards and farms, where they are often dried close to where they were grown, preserving the flavor of the harvest in every bite.