Spicy Plum Sauce

(1)

This Georgian plum sauce, called tkemali, is especially tasty with the pork shashlik. It's traditionally made with underripe fruit, so it's more tangy than sweet.

Spicy Plum Sauce
Photo: © Martin Morrell
Active Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
40 mins
Yield:
1 cup

Ingredients

  • 3 red or black plums (about 3/4 pound), quartered and pits reserved

  • 2 1/2 cups water

  • 2 teaspoons sugar

  • 1 long red fresh chile, seeded and minced

  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

  • 1 tablespoon chopped dill

  • 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar

  • Salt

Directions

  1. In a small saucepan, cover the plums and pits with the water and bring to a boil. Cover partially and simmer over moderately low heat until the plums are very soft, about 20 minutes. Drain the plums, reserving 1/4 cup of the water; discard the pits.

  2. Transfer the plums to a blender. Add the sugar, half of the chile and the reserved cooking liquid and puree. Strain the puree through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl. Stir in the cilantro, dill, vinegar and the remaining chile. Season with salt and serve.

Make Ahead

The plum sauce can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Related Articles