Peaches

Peaches are a juicy, sweet fruit with a velvety skin that ranges from yellow to red, depending on the variety. Originating in China, they have been cultivated for thousands of years and are now enjoyed worldwide. Their flavor profile is a delightful balance of sweet and tart, with an aromatic fragrance that intensifies when ripe. The texture of a peach is soft and succulent, with a juicy flesh that clings to a single, large pit. When cooking with peaches, they behave well in both raw and cooked applications, breaking down into a luscious compote or maintaining their shape when quickly sautéed or grilled. They are versatile enough to be used in both savory and sweet dishes, though they are most commonly associated with desserts due to their natural sweetness.

Notes

When selecting peaches, look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a fragrant aroma. Avoid fruits with green shoulders or wrinkled skin. Store ripe peaches in the refrigerator for up to five days. Unripe peaches can be left at room temperature to ripen. Handle gently to prevent bruising. Peaches are part of the Rosaceae family, so those with peach or tree nut allergies should exercise caution.

Uses

Fresh summer salads
Grilled with savory herbs
Peach cobbler or pie
Smoothies and juices
Salsa for grilled fish or chicken
Preserved as jam or chutney
Balsamic roasted side dish

Replacements

Nectarines for similar texture and flavor
Plums for a tart alternative
Apricots in cooked dishes
Mangoes for tropical sweetness
Berries in fresh preparations

Sweet and Sour Sauce

A tangy and tangy-sweet sauce that dances on your taste buds with a perfect balance of vinegar's zing and sugar's embrace. Often kissed by a hint of tomato and pineapple, it's a flavor explosion in every drop.

Gruyere Cheese

Gruyere cheese is a traditional Swiss cheese known for its rich, nutty flavor and smooth, velvety texture. Originating from the town of Gruyères in Switzerland, it has a history dating back to the 12th century. Its complex taste profile includes notes of sweet cream, toasted nuts, and a hint of fruitiness, with a pleasant depth that intensifies when melted. The texture is firm yet pliable, becoming gooey and stretchy when heated. In cooking, Gruyere is prized for its ability to melt smoothly without becoming greasy, making it ideal for dishes that require a luxurious, creamy finish. It also browns beautifully, adding both flavor and visual appeal to gratins and fondues.

Recipes to try

Pesto Roasted Veggie Sandwiches with Mozzarella

Warm, toasty ciabatta cradles a medley of roasted veggies, vibrant pesto, and melty mozzarella for a sandwich that's as hearty as it is fresh.

Spicy Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Rigatoni

A zesty dance of spicy sausage and smoky roasted red peppers twirled in al dente rigatoni.