Craving authentic Asian flavors without leaving home? Or simply curious to try a snack that goes beyond traditional potato chips? The Liu Liu plum, or Liuliumei to those in the know, is a true staple of Asian snacking that is winning over more and more palates. Its unique flavor profile, both sweet and sour and salty, is sure to surprise… and get you hooked.
The only catch: with so many varieties, it's hard to know where to start. Don't worry, we're here to guide you in finding the perfect Asian dried plum for your taste buds.
To make sure you pick the right one, here are the key criteria to keep in mind.
The simple name "plum" actually hides a whole palette of flavors. Liu Liu Plum specialties come in several distinct recipes:
The packaging is a good indicator. Pouches with individually wrapped plums are perfect for on-the-go, at the office, or simply to keep from eating the whole bag at once. Larger, more economical formats are ideal for home consumption, to be enjoyed as is or added to your yogurts and cereals.
A quick glance at the ingredient list can change everything. The presence of fruit juices, the type of plum (green, California), or the mention of sweeteners are all clues that directly influence the taste. This helps you choose a product that truly matches what you love.
To help you make your choice, we've reviewed three must-try products from the Liu Liu range, each with its own distinct personality.
Why it stands out: This is the quintessential traditional version of the marinated green plum. It's the ideal gateway to discovering the classic sweet-sour-salty balance that has made these treats famous.
Key Strengths:
Who Is It For? For purists seeking the original flavor of this Chinese snack, and for creative types who want to try their hand at homemade drinks.
Why it stands out: Made with California plums (90.6%), this version stands out for its plump flesh and melt-in-your-mouth texture. The addition of plum juice enhances its fruity notes.
Key Strengths:
Who Is It For? For those who prefer a sweeter, less acidic dried plum, and for all foodies who love to customize their cereals, yogurts, or baked goods.
Why it stands out: The most unique of the bunch! It blends green plum with the sweetness of Shanghai yellow peach. Its texture, described as "QQ", is a popular concept in Asia: both chewy and tender, it offers a truly unique and fun chewing experience.
Key Strengths:
Who Is It For? For flavor adventurers and fans of novel textures. The perfect option to step off the beaten path and discover the 2.0 version of the Asian dried plum.
Did none of these plums catch your eye? Or perhaps you just want to explore other gourmet avenues? Feel free to check out our selection of simple and delicious desserts. You're sure to find something to satisfy all your sweet cravings.
The Liu Liu plum (or Liuliumei) is a star brand of preserved plums, an essential treat in Asia. They are most often green plums marinated in a mixture of sugar, salt, and spices, then dried. The result is a confection with a complex flavor that is simultaneously sweet, salty, and tangy.
The taste varies greatly from one recipe to another, but the brand's signature remains its sweet and sour balance, enhanced with a hint of salt. Some are very tangy, while others are sweeter and fruitier. It's this very complexity that makes them so addictive.
They are mainly found in Asian supermarkets and on specialized e-commerce platforms like Joybuy.fr. This is the easiest way to have a wide selection of flavors delivered right to your door.