As is often the case in Christmas week, its which of the many stonefruits is going to win the mantle of pick of the week. Undoubtedly our sales always are dominated by cherries and mangoes. However this is also the time of the year when we start the really good eating peaches and nectarines at Harris Farm. Better growing areas start to supply from now and for me the white peaches this week are fabulous. It’s a very delicate fragrant flavour and for the next three or four weeks the peaches are at their best. In February the nectarines outpace the peaches but January is when peaches are at their best. So many fantastic options this week in fruit but for me the fresh new taste of the white peaches probably can’t be beaten.
HOW TO PICK
Look for fruits that are smooth and unblemished. Because they bruise easily, peaches should be handled with care specially when already ripe.
HOW TO STORE
Store peaches at room temperature until ripe — this usually takes 2 to 3 days. A ripe fruit will yield a bit when pressed gently. To speed up the ripening process, place peaches in a paper bag and store at room temperature, out of direct sunlight. Storing ripe stone fruit in the crisper drawer will prolong its eating life — it should keep for up to a week when refrigerated.
