Greengages

Greengages are green, plum-like fruits from Prunus italica or P. domestica, prized for a honeyed sweetness that belies their colour. They are eaten raw or cooked and make superb jams and jellies, though their vitamin C content runs relatively low. The trees crop heavily in good years and the fruit bruises easily, so harvest timing and gentle handling decide quality. Dessert varieties are picked fully ripe, while culinary types go to the jam pan slightly earlier for pectin. Their high pectin sets preserves with a brilliant green-gold colour.