Enjoying Seasonal Peaches: How to Eat Them

How to Eat Peaches: Enjoying Them Whole, Skin and All

Summer just isn't summer without peaches.
Just thinking about that soft, fragrant aroma and juicy sweetness makes me feel happy.

But have you ever wondered, "What's the right way to cut a peach?" or "Is it okay to eat the skin?"
Today, I'm going to take a deeper look at how to eat peaches.

Various Ways to Cut Peaches

Peaches are best just as they are! ...That said, it's important to find ways to make them easier to eat.

1. How to peel with a knife

• Make a cut all the way around to the pit along the seam

• Twist with both hands and it will split into two

• Remove the pit, cut into wedges, and peel for easy eating

2. Blanching

• Just like with tomatoes, make a cross-shaped cut on the top

• Dip in boiling water for 10 to 30 seconds, then immediately into ice water

• The skin peels off smoothly from the cut, which is so satisfying!

3. The "eat the skin" approach

• Actually, fresh, ripe peaches can be eaten with the skin on

• However, the key is to thoroughly wash off the fuzz on the surface under running water

Can you eat peach skin?

Some of you might think, "I'm a bit hesitant to eat it with the skin on."
But don't worry. You can eat peach skin.

In places like Germany, it's common to eat them with the skin on. Even in Japan, once you get used to it, the texture of the skin and the sweetness of the flesh blend together, which becomes quite addictive.

However, the fuzz can irritate the mouth, so those with sensitive skin or concerns about allergies should be careful. It is safer to wash it off thoroughly or heat it to make jam or compote.

Actually Amazing! The Nutrition in Peach Skin

Peach skin is packed with even more nutrients than the flesh.

• Polyphenols … Anti-aging through antioxidant effects

• Dietary fiber (pectin) … Improves intestinal environment for a refreshing effect

• Vitamins C and E … For beautiful skin and boosted immunity

• Potassium … Supports blood pressure by excreting salt

Furthermore, it is said that the sweetness of a peach is concentrated between the flesh and the skin.
In other words, if you eat it with the skin on, you can enjoy both the "deliciousness" and the "nutrition."

Summary

Peaches can be peeled, blanched, or eaten with the skin on.
The way you eat them changes both the flavor and how you absorb the nutrients.
Eating a whole peach with a knife and fork makes you feel very luxurious. Firmer peaches are just right for this. If I get my hands on a soft peach, I'd like to try and see if I can eat it just as skillfully with a knife and fork. I hope you all enjoy your summer treat fruit in your own favorite style too 🍑

Bonus: Kawanakajima Hakuto is a peach variety originating from the Kawanakajima district of Nagano City, and is one of the most famous peaches in the country. It is characterized by its large size, firm flesh, and strong sweetness. Its long shelf life is also a great appeal.

Characteristics of Kawanakajima Hakuto:

• Origin:Kawanakajima district, Nagano City

• Harvest Season:Mid-August to early September

• Size:Large, with many weighing over 300g

• Flesh:White, firm texture, and crunchy

• Taste:Strong sweetness with mild acidity

• Shelf Life:Relatively better compared to other varieties

• Other:Sometimes called the King of Peaches

How to choose Kawanakajima Hakuto:

• Those that are milky white all over are closer to being fully ripe

• Choose ones with a strong, characteristic peach aroma.

• Peaches ripen from the bottom up, so they are ready to eat when the bottom feels slightly soft.

• Check to make sure there are no bruises.

How to eat Kawanakajima Hakuto peaches:

• It is recommended to chill them in the refrigerator before eating.

• While it is common to peel them, you can also eat them with the skin on.

• Slicing them for use in salads or desserts is also a great option.

How to store Kawanakajima Hakuto peaches:

• Wrap them in newspaper or similar material and store them in a cool place.

• If you prefer them firm, eat them sooner.

• If you prefer them soft, leave them at room temperature for 2 to 3 days to ripen further.

• After they have ripened, store them in the refrigerator and eat them as soon as possible.

Kawanakajima Hakuto is a delicious peach that represents Nagano Prefecture. Please be sure to try one.