Sweet, juicy peaches are true gift of Southern summers
The last really good peach I enjoyed was last August —until last week when I stooped over to snack on one right off the tree. I was glad to have a stack of napkins close by because the test of a truly good peach is how much juice runs down your arm and chin. This one passed beautifully and it was love at first bite.
Red Haven is the variety I snack on regularly since it is a semi-cling peach, meaning the pit isn’t stuck to the flesh, but it doesn’t immediately separate either. That particular variety is one of the most popular ones planted from Tennessee north. And the reason is because it’s gorgeous and wonderfully tasty.
Look at what is referred to as the “ground color” when selecting peaches. It should have no hint of green. The attractive blush is only an indicator of the variety, not of quality. You might see some specks of brown along parts of the outer skin, which don’t influence quality, either. They are due to weather conditions and since most recipes call for peaches to be peeled, will go away with your paring knife.
Store fresh peaches at room temperature Martha, nectarines tend to be smaller in size and firmer in texture than peaches. Like peaches they can be freestone, semi-cling or cling, so you obviously bought a variety that is freestone. Late season varieties tend to be cling, which is the opposite of peaches. until they start to get too soft and you need to hold them for a few more days. To check for ripeness, simply cradle the fruit in your hand. There is no need to squeeze, which will only serve to bruise the peach. Varieties change as the season progresses, so purchase more every week or so throughout the summer.
Peaches are more than 80 percent water, which truly helps refresh you on a hot, humid day. All you need to do is rinse it off and eat it like an apple for a taste of the South. It needs no embellishment, just a few damp cloths to clean yourself up afterward.
Tammy Algood of Smyrna is the author of five cookbooks. Reach her at ttalgood@bellsouth.net.