Plum-Delicious Dessert

Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first. ~Ernestine Ulmer

Who would argue with that advice? Not me, not today. The stovetop refused to heat, it was w-a-a-y too hot to bake and I couldn't find the energy to walk to town for lunch or even an ice cream cone. Broiled stone fruit to the rescue! I considered making Nutty Nectarines, but after checking the galley fruit basket, decided on a simple plum preparation instead.

Just plain plums would have been an adequate snack, but brushed with Triple Sec, sprinkled with brown sugar, broiled and topped with whipped cream... well, after all that they were divine. I did contemplate using a torch to caramelize the sugar instead of heating up the broiler, but that seemed too dangerous on this hot, lazy day. Today was a day to enjoy a fresh-fruit treat, not to have a blazing adventure.

Sweet but not too sweet, the melted sugar balanced the slightly tart edge of the red plums. Next time I might add a sprinkle of chopped nuts to up the crunch factor, almonds or pistachios would be my first choice. The broiled plum dish was a perfect snack, tempting enough to enjoy again as dessert as we relaxed on the boat deck, watching a dramatic neon sunset develop across the marina. 

Life is good... and so are Broiled Plums.

Plum-Delicious Broiled Plums

3 or 4 large, ripe plums, halved and pitted
a Tablespoon or two of Triple Sec or Brandy
a Tablespoon or two of brown sugar
whipped cream, Honey Greek yogurt, or ice cream (optional but good!)

1. Place the halved plums in an oven-safe pan, cut side up. Brush the fruit with Triple Sec and sprinkle lightly with brown sugar. 
2. Preheat the boiler, setting the rack so the top of the fruit is about 6 inches below the flame or element.
3. Place under the broiler and heat for 4 to 6 minutes, until the sugar is melted and shows some color.
4. Eat it plain or serve with Honey Greek yogurt, crème fraiche, ice cream or whipped cream.