Peach Month
31st July 2019
August is Peach Month and recognises the fuzzy stone fruit that provides us with an abundance of sweet yumminess all summer long!
Enjoyed on their own as a sweet snack or baked into a favourite dessert, the peach is a versatile and juicy fruit that we can’t get enough of. In this week’s blog, we explore more about the powerful peach, its origins and feature a lip-smacking recipe for Peach and Blueberry Tart.
Which Country Produces Peaches?
China is the leading producer of peaches, followed by Spain, Italy, Greece and then the United States. As of 2017, peach production in China was just over 14 million tonnes – accounting for over 50% of the world’s production.
Peaches thrive in dry continental or temperate climates and require warm weather, so that buds can grow and break. The summer heat is required for each peach plant to mature, which then begins to bear fruit in the third year of cultivation.
Health Benefits
There are many health benefits gained from eating peaches. Peaches contain a wealth of essential nutrients and antioxidants that help to maintain healthy vision, skin, bones and teeth. They also contain anti-ageing properties, help with detoxification, improve cellular health and digestion. According to recent research, the selenium in peaches has also reported to have a positive effect in preventing cancer.
Peaches are known to reduce anxiety and are often referred to as the “Fruit of Calmness”, with the peach aroma demonstrating analgesic effects such as reducing the feelings of pain, lifting depression, and creating a sense of well-being.
Peachy Facts
- Peaches are at their peak from June to the end of August
- A large peach has fewer than 70 calories and contains 3 grams of fibre
- You can ripen peaches by placing them in a brown paper bag for two to three days. Sliced, fresh peaches should be tossed in lemon or lime juice to prevent browning
- The world’s largest peach cobbler is made every year in Georgia in the United States. The cobbler measures 11 feet by 5 feet
- The peach used to be known as “Persian Apple” because ancient Romans believed that the peach originated from Persia
- In China, the peach symbolises immortality and unity. Brides use peach flowers to decorate their hair during their wedding ceremony.
Peach and Blueberry Tart
Why not celebrate Peach Month with a Peach and Blueberry Tart? Full of summer flavours, this tart is easy to make, tasty and a delicious summer dessert.
Ingredients
- A sheet of Shortcrust Pastry
- 6 Peaches
- A Handful of Blueberries
- 60g Caster Sugar
- A Pinch of Cinnamon
- 60g Melted Butter
- 50g Light Brown Sugar
- A Tablespoon of Apricot Jam
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/Gas Mark 6.
- Roll out the shortcrust pastry onto a work surface to fit a 20cm greased dish or tin. Prick the base of the pastry with a fork several times. Place in the fridge to chill.
- Cut the peaches in half and de-stone them. Then slice the peaches into thin and equal pieces. Put the peaches and the blueberries into a bowl and mix in the caster sugar and cinnamon.
- Take the pastry out of the fridge and arrange the peach slices and blueberries into an aesthetically appealing pattern. Brush with the melted butter and cover with the light brown sugar.
- Bake in the centre of the oven for approximately 20 minutes. Or until slightly brown on top.
- While the tart is still warm, glaze it with the apricot jam and sprinkle with some additional sugar.
The Fruit & Veg Hut
The Fruit & Veg Hut at Garden Square Shopping Centre is your one-stop-shop for an array of tasty fresh fruits and vegetables! Head to the hut this Peach Month for peaches, blueberries and much more to ensure August is that little bit sweeter.
