Damson

Prune de Damas

What it is

Named for Damascus, where Roman traders found it, and far too astringent to eat off the tree. Its whole purpose is transformation: the acidity and heavy pectin make a jam and a gin that no sweeter plum can match.

In the kitchen

Do not try to stone them raw. Cook them whole and lift the stones out with a slotted spoon as they float free.

Goes with

Cinnamon Clove Honey Juniper berry Almond Vanilla Black pepper Bay leaf

Same species

Bergeron apricot Almond Almond flour Almond oil Amardine Amarena cherry in syrup

In season alongside

Lingonberry Cranberry Cornelian cherry Gooseberry Jabuticaba Omija (schisandra berry)

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