Peach

Pêche

Appears in
Cuisine Foundations

By Le Cordon Bleu

Published 2010

  • About
Prunus persica

Peaches are a species of Prunus and are indigenous to China. Prior to the Common Era, peaches were imported to Persia and the Mediterranean area by travelers using the Silk Road.

White-fleshed peaches (actually a very pale yellow) are the sweetest and contain less acidity. This variety is most popular in Asia. The yellow-fleshed variety is sweet, but with varying levels of tangy acidity. Yellow-fleshed peaches are most popular with European and North American consumers. The skin is velvety and delicate, and susceptible to bruising. The seed, or stone, is a reddish brown color and oval shaped. Peaches may be eaten fresh, but also have many culinary uses in pastries, jam, chutney, salad, and wine.