One might ask, what is the difference between Japanese plums and Chinese plums? Well, Japanese plums are also known as Umeboshi or salty plums. Chinese plums, on the other hand, are called Prunus Salicina. The primary way to tell them apart or differentiate them is to compare their sizes. The “Prunus Salicina” or the Chinese plum is smaller than the “umeboshi” or the Japanese plum. The Chinese plum is also sourer. But even though some might say they are the same, they are not. The Japanese plum is related to both the apricot family as well as the plum family. And both of these “plums” are also used to make tea.
The Main Differences
Probably the most significant difference between the Chinese plum and the Japanese plum would be that the
Chinese plums are:
- Sourer
- Smaller
- Named “Prunus Salicina”
The Japanese plums are:
- Less sour
- Bigger
- Named “Umeboshi
- Intensely sour-salty-sweet
The Chinese plums get usually used in:
- A flavoring in alcohol
- Juices
- A pickle
- In sauces
The Japanese plums get traditionally used in:
- Rice dishes
- Onigiri
- Purée
Are They the Same Thing?
No, they aren’t the same thing as they both have significant differences; even if you hear from someone that these plums are the same thing, they are not.
Why Are They Not the Same Thing?
They aren’t the same thing as they have significant differences. Such as when you think about the names, they are different. And Chinese and Japanese plum names give out information when you think about it. An example could be that Chinese and Japanese. These are two other places, and plums grow in different areas. Thus they are different. When you think more about it, you find out more differences—like mentioned above. And if you search, you will also find that the suggested serving for Chinese and Japanese plums is different. As the Chinese plums’ recommended serving is four to five a day, the Japanese plum’s suggested serving is one or two a day. There are some similarities, but they are still different.
Benefits of Chinese plum
The Chinese plum is also related to the apple and peach family. Thus it has some of their characteristics and benefits too. It is associated with more of the Rosacea family as well. They are impressively high in nutrients.
They contain:
- More than 15 different minerals and vitamins
- They are high in antioxidants and fiber.
- Japanese plums are also high in vitamin K and C
- Potassium,
- Dietary fiber
- Copper.
It is even called a “superfood.” Being high in fiber makes plums great as a medicine for people dealing with constipation. They also reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Such as:
- Osteoporosis
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Cancer.
Benefits of The Japanese Plum
The Japanese plum is also known as the ume fruit. It is an integral part of Japanese cuisine and has several versatile uses, including umeshu, ume vinegar, and flavorful desserts. The Japanese plum is also known as a “superfood.” Recommended servings of plums are one or two in the morning to give you a boost and energy. One or two a day servings a day are ideal. The plums are suitable for:
- High in polyphenols
- Diarrhea
- Infection
- Nausea
- Reduce the risk of diabetes
- Lower blood pressure
- Boost calcium absorption
- Prevent hardening of the arteries
- Improve memory capacity
- Reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease
- Are good for skin
As you can see, Japanese plums have more advantages than the Chinese plum. This difference is also proof that they are different eatables. Even if you search, you will find many websites calling them by the same name. But they are different in many ways as even their benefits are different. The proof is even mentioned above for you. Japanese plums get stored for years before they rot.
What Are Their Similarities?
Some of their main similarities are:
- Both are the same color.
- They are round
- All are sour
- They are tart
- They can both can be made into purees
- Vinegar gets pushed out of plums.
- Plum sauces are famous.
- They are suitable for constipation.
These are the main similarities. After some more research, you may find more similarities or even differences.
Final Thoughts
Are Chinese and Japanese plums different? Yes, they are different. They are different for the many differences mentioned above and many more. Even though they have similarities, they are still different. Even their size is different. Their taste is also different, and even their region of growth is other. So this is proof that they are different.
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