You can get peaches year-round in some areas, but the best time for many of us is around July and August. These are the peaches you dream about all year long. Fragrant and juicy, peaches can be used in several recipes.
Whether you want a dessert or something new to add to the breakfast table, there are many delicious uses for this summer fruit. But before we get to that, let’s start with how you can save money on peaches and some storage tips for preserving them.
How much do peaches usually cost?
Peaches are a delicious and nutritious fruit that is enjoyed by people all over the world. Though they may vary in price depending on where you purchase them, peaches usually cost between $1.77 and $1.83 per kilogram or $0.8 and $0.83 per pound. Peaches make a great snack or can be used in pies, jams, and other desserts. They are also a good source of vitamins A and C and fiber. So, pick up a few peaches next time you’re at the store.
You might like this post: Blackberry Peach Cobbler
What to do with peaches to preserve them?
There are many ways to preserve peaches. One way is to freeze them. For example, halved and pitted peaches can be placed on a baking sheet, flash frozen for 45 minutes, then transferred to a freezer-safe bag. This is a great way to have fresh peaches in the middle of winter.
Another way to preserve peaches is by making peach jam. You will need sugar, peaches, lemon juice, and pectin. Boil sugar and peaches for about ten minutes, then add lemon juice and pectin. Boil for an additional minute, then pour into clean jars. This method can also be used for other fruits such as apricots and strawberries.
Interesting Facts About Peaches
The peach season starts in May and goes through September. This means you’ll be able to find the fruit throughout that period, but the best fruit can be found in July and August.
One medium peach has 60 calories and roughly half a gram of fat.
Who’s the Biggest Peach Producer in the US?
According to the AGMRC, California is responsible for the vast majority of peach production in the United States. In 2020, the state produced 468,000 tons of peaches, valued at $308.3 million. This accounted for over 76% of the nation’s total peach production.
South Carolina was a distant second, producing 76,500 tons of peaches, valued at $67 million. Together, these two states accounted for over 93% of all peaches grown in the United States in 2020. With such a large percentage of the market share, it is no surprise that California is often considered the ‘Peach State.’
Although peaches are grown in many other states across the country, California’s climate and soil conditions are uniquely suited to peach production, making it the leading producer of this popular fruit.
How to Save Money on Peaches
Peaches can be preserved in different ways. One way to save peaches is to dehydrate them. This can be done with a dehydrator or in your oven. SparkPeople has an amazing article on dehydrating peaches and other types of fruit in the oven.
You can also can peaches. This is a more involved process. Delish has an excellent article that walks you through the process.
Freezing peaches is another option. To freeze, peel, cut the fruit in half, remove the pit, and slice. You can then toss the peaches in sugar and stir every 30 minutes or so until a juice forms, and the sugar has dissolved. Transfer to freezer bags or containers along with the juice and freeze.
Can I freeze peaches without sugar?
Yes! Instead of tossing with sugar. Slice the fruit and place it on a cookie sheet lined with a silicone sheet. Place in your freezer until frozen, then transfer the slices to a freezer bag.
How to Save Money on Peaches
Fresh fruits and vegetables can be expensive. Thankfully, you can save money on peaches in a few different ways.
Shop Farmer’s Markets
One of the easiest ways to save money on peaches is to shop at farmer’s markets. When you buy directly from farmers, you’re cutting out the middleman. In addition, you’re getting the ripest, most delicious fruit possible when not growing it yourself.
Purchase in Larger Quantities
The more peaches you buy, the better. Don’t be afraid to purchase a half or whole bushel. You can always preserve peaches to use later, which is always nice during the fall and winter months. Just be sure to look through the fruit as closely as possible to ensure you’re getting the best fruit possible.
Look for Sales
If you have to purchase in a grocery store, wait until there’s a sale. You can often find peaches for less than $1 per pound, especially during the peak season. Because these peaches may not be local, you may find that the fruit is a bit hard. However, you can place them in a brown paper bag and roll down the top to help the fruit ripen.
Delicious Uses for Peaches
We all know about peach cobbler and peach pie. The following suggestions will give you a few more ideas to make the most of this delicious summer fruit.
Peach Upside Down Cake
Pineapple upside-down cake is a longtime favorite, but why limit yourself to pineapple. When the seasons change, use the seasonal fruit. Fill two 8-inch round cake pans with 1 cup brown sugar and half a stick of melted butter each, then add your peeled and sliced peaches.
You can create a beautiful pattern with the fruit slices if you want. Then pour your favorite cake batter on top and bake per the instructions of your famous pineapple upside-down cake.
Peach Pancake or Waffle Topping
This recipe is super simple. Melt a half stick of butter in a large skillet and add a cup of brown sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon. Once the sugar is melted, fold in 4 cups of sliced peaches (unpeeled) and cook until the desired tenderness is achieved. Serve over pancakes, waffles, or even French toast with a dollop of whipped cream.
Peachy Ice Cream Sundaes
The hot peach topping listed above is also deliciously served over vanilla ice cream. To make the sundae more decadent, top the sundaes with crushed gingersnap cookies and whipped cream.
Peach Shortcake
Lastly, take a break from strawberry shortcake to enjoy a peach version of this beloved recipe. Fold peeled and sliced peaches with peach glaze (found in the produce section) and refrigerate until cold, about 2 hours.
Once cool, top a shortcake layer with half the peach mixture and whipped cream. Add a second cake layer and repeat the peach and whipped cream layers. Serve immediately or wrap in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator.
Peaches are one the best summer fruits, and their uses are endless. However, you aren’t limited by the traditional peach pie or cobbler. Branch out and try something new. You also don’t have to spend a lot of money or let the fruit go to waste. There are many ways to save money and preserve peaches for later use.
Did you enjoy this article? Then, check out my other post, Save Money on Fruits and Vegetables, to save even more money.