Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, juicy peaches. And if you’re looking for a peach that’s easy to eat and versatile in the kitchen, Freestone peaches are the perfect choice.
What is a Freestone peach?
A freestone peach is a type of peach whose flesh easily separates from the pit. This makes them ideal for eating fresh, as you can simply cut the peach in half and the pit will fall out. Freestone peaches are also good for cooking and baking because they don’t get as mushy as clingstone peaches.
Freestone peaches are typically larger than clingstone peaches and have a firmer texture. They are also less juicy than clingstone peaches, but are still sweet and delicious.
The term “freestone” comes from the fact that the flesh of the peach is free from the pit. This is in contrast to clingstone peaches, where the flesh is firmly attached to the pit.
Freestone peaches are a popular choice for eating fresh because they are easy to eat and don’t get messy. They are also a good choice for cooking and baking because they don’t get as mushy as clingstone peaches.
Some popular varieties of freestone peaches include:
- Elberta: This is a large, yellow peach with sweet, juicy flesh.
- Redhaven: This is a medium-sized, red peach with sweet, tangy flesh.
- Contender: This is a large, yellow peach with firm, flavorful flesh.
- Mayflower: This is a medium-sized, yellow peach with sweet, juicy flesh.
Freestone peaches are usually available during the summer months. They can be found at most grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
Why are Freestone peaches so good?
There are several reasons why Freestone peaches are so good. First, they are simply delicious. They have sweet, juicy flesh that is perfect for eating fresh. Second, they are versatile. You can use them in a variety of dishes, from pies and cobblers to salads and smoothies. Third, they are easy to eat. The flesh separates easily from the pit, so you don’t have to worry about getting messy fingers.
How to Choose and Store Freestone Peaches
How to Choose Freestone Peaches
- Look for firmness. Freestone peaches should be firm, but not hard. When you press the skin with your thumb, it should give slightly.
- Check the color. The skin of a ripe Freestone peach should be light yellow or light orange. Avoid peaches that are green or have bruises or soft spots.
- Smell the peaches. Ripe Freestone peaches should have a sweet, fragrant aroma.
How to store Freestone peaches
- Freestone peaches will keep up to 3 days at room temperature. To extend their shelf life, store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- When storing Freestone peaches in the refrigerator, place them in a single layer in a paper bag. This will help prevent bruising.
- Do not wash Freestone peaches until you are ready to eat them. Washing removes the natural wax that protects them from spoilage.
Tips for Storing Freestone Peaches
- If you buy Freestone peaches in bulk, you can store them in a cool, dark place for up to 2 weeks.
- When freezing freestone peaches, peel and slice them before freezing. This will help prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Freestone peaches can be frozen for up to 6 months.
Recipes for Freestone Peaches
Freestone Peach Pie
This classic pie is made with fresh Freestone peaches and a flaky crust. It is a delicious and easy to make dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 (9-inch) pie crust, unbaked
- 6 cups sliced nectarine peaches
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour peach mixture into unbaked pie crust.
- Brush with butter.
- Bake in preheated oven 15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
- Reduce heat to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and bake an additional 30 minutes, or until filling is bubbly and thickened.
- Allow to cool completely before serving.
Freestone Peach Cobbler
This easy-to-make cobbler is a great way to use up ripe Freestone peaches. It is a delicious and satisfying dessert that is perfect for a summer picnic or potluck.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups sliced Freestone peaches
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup self-rising flour
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour peach mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, self-rising flour, and milk until just combined.
- Drop batter by spoonfuls over peach mixture.
- Bake in preheated oven 30-35 minutes, or until topping is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Freestone Peach Jam
This homemade jam is a delicious way to enjoy Freestone peaches all year round. It is a great way to use up ripe peaches and is perfect for spreading on toast, bagels, or crackers.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups sliced Freestone peaches
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
- Combine the peaches, sugar and lemon juice in a large saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until thickened.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Pour into sterilized jars and seal.
- Allow to cool completely before storing in the refrigerator.
Freestone Peach Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie is a great way to start the day or cool down on a hot day. It is made with fresh Freestone peaches, yogurt and milk. It is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this summer fruit.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sliced Freestone peaches
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into glasses and serve.
I hope you enjoy these recipes!
Conclusion
Freestone peaches are a delicious and versatile fruit, perfect for summer. They are easy to eat, versatile in the kitchen, and can be enjoyed in many different ways. So the next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up some Freestone peaches and enjoy all they have to offer.
FAQs
What is a freestone peach?
Freestone alludes to peaches with a flesh that is easily removed from the pit. In many cases, the pit literally falls out of the peach once it’s sliced. Thanks to that characteristic, these peaches are usually the most common type found at local markets and grocery stores as they are best when eaten fresh.
How can you tell if a peach is a Freestone?
If you cut a clingstone peach in half, you will find it difficult to pull the two halves apart and separate the flesh from the stone. Freestone fruits have a pit that is not attached to the flesh. When you cut a freestone peach in half, it will come away from the flesh easily.
What kind of peaches are freestone?
Peaches in the “freestone” category have flesh that easily comes away from the stone. The different kinds of freestone peaches such as “Early Amber,” “Fay Elberta,” “Glohaven,” “Golden Jubilee,” and “Loring” tend to be large peaches with yellow flesh.
Which peaches are the sweetest?
The darling little donut peach, also known as the Saturn peach, is often considered the sweetest peach variety. This heirloom variety looks like a typical peach — that’s been smushed! They’re soft and tender with less acidity than their yellow-skinned counterparts.
What do freestone peaches look like?
A freestone peach has fruit that falls right off the pit. These peaches are perfect for eating, canning, and freezing. You just slice the peach down the middle, and pull it right off the pit. They’re available Mid-June to Mid-August.
What are the best freestone peaches?
Based on its beauty, extraordinary rich, sweet taste and extended shelf life, Elegant Lady is the top freestone peach variety. O’Henry peaches are second in popularity and known for their large size and scarlet streak that runs close to the pit of the fruit.