Make sure you work with a knife small enough to handle. A large knife is not appropriate for cutting plums.
As the process can make a mess on the bottom of your oven, consider setting something down to catch the drippings. Some people find success laying a single sheet of foil on the bottom of the oven. However, the foil may melt and it does not work for gas ovens. [3] X Research source You could try lining a baking tray with foil and setting that under the plums.
Make sure to place the oven rack in the oven slowly. You do not want to knock the plums around. [5] X Research source
This also depends on personal preference. Some people prefer prunes slightly dryer while some prefer them juicier. Do not remove the prunes until they’re at your desired state.
The prunes will probably be ready at slightly different rates. Remove them as needed.
Pull the two halves of the plums apart. Remove the pit and discard. If you don’t have a pairing knife, you can use another sharp knife. However, be sure to avoid a large knife. Plums are small, and you want to make sure you maintain control of your knife as you cut around the pit.
Make sure the dehydrator is at the right temperature before placing the plums in the oven. Place the tray in the dehydrator slowly to avoid knocking the plums together.
When plums are ready to turn, the upside should be very dry. The plums should release easily from the tray. If the upside of the plum is still moist, and the plum does not come off easily, leave the plums for a bit longer before turning them.
You can store prunes in a cool, dark area. Prunes can be safely stored in the pantry, the refrigerator, or the freezer.
In the pantry and fridge, dried prunes will last 6 to 12 months. The freezer can extend the shelf life of a dried prune. Dried prunes stored in the freezer can last 12 to 18 months.
Prunes can add a slightly sweet flavor to a stuffing, which can shake up a stuffing made with mostly savory ingredients.
Stuffed prunes would make a great snack for an elegant dinner party.
