Cookbook:Ume-shu (Japanese Plum Juice)

| Cuisine of Japan

Ume juice is extracted by preserving the fruits in sugar. It tastes sweet, smooth, and acidic, and is a refreshing drink, often enjoyed in the summer. The taste and aroma of ume-shu can appeal to even those people who normally dislike the taste of alcohol.

Ingredients

 * 1 kg raw Japanese ume plums
 * 1 kg rock sugar
 * Honey to taste
 * White liquor to taste

Equipment

 * A container (preferably a sealable glassware)

Procedure

 * 1) Wash plums and wipe dry.
 * 2) Cram plums tightly into container with rock sugar. Add liquor if using.
 * 3) Pour honey into container on top of ume.
 * 4) Seal container, and leave in a cool, dark place until the plums are shriveled and leathery.
 * 5) Remove fruit from container.
 * 6) To drink, dilute the plum liquid with two times as much water.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * Keep in a cool place during summer.