The Situation: You have a great cobbler, pie or salad recipe. But, you are looking for an easy way to peel peaches, because you are super busy and you have limited time to make the recipe. How are you going to peel all those peaches?
Plus, isn't there an easier way? Where you don't have to tug at the skin with a paring knife and then slice the skin off, only to lose so much peach fruit? It's tedious and messy too!
As I set out to make the peach and blueberry crumble recipe below, I was in the very same dilemma. Besides, I also like to figure out faster ways of doing things. Because - it makes me feel clever. 🙂
So, I did some research.
The results? Well, let me show you.
By the way, for this particular recipe, I used fresh, local peaches, and blueberries.
Usually peeling peaches involves cutting the skins off with a knife. Many times some of the yummy peach comes off with the skin. It is inevitable, it's just too hard to avoid. Since I discovered this technique, peeling peaches is a snap and there is no waste. Tip: you could compost the peach skins!
Why Peel Peaches?
Well, one good reason to peel peaches is that according to *EWG, peaches are a crop that is grown using a high amount of pesticides and chemicals. I try to buy organic peaches for this reason. However, removing the skins is one way to be less exposed. And, there really is nothing like freshly picked, local, farm-fresh peaches in the summer.
Another reason - There are many recipes where peeling the skins from peaches produces a better result. For example, in my opinion, crumbles, pies, and cobblers all taste better with peeled fruit. I prefer peeled fruit in smoothies as well.
*The EWG is an organization/website that produces an annual list of the vegetables and fruits that use the most chemicals and those with the least. The lists are called "The Clean Fifteen" and "The Dirty 12" (a.k.a. The Dirty Dozen). They also have useful information about healthier sunscreens and other very practical and interesting facts.
Peaches are considered a superfood, and contain vitamins A and C, have antioxidants, and no fat!
Related:
How to Cut A Mango
No Juicer? No Problem! Lemon Juice Without A Juicer
Fun Fact: Peaches were first cultivated in China and have been grown for many centuries. They are considered a symbol of immortality.
Steps To Peel Peaches The Easy Way -
With this technique, you will submerge your peaches in boiling water.
- First, gather and wash your peaches.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Place peaches in the pot of boiling water one by one, gently. I used a slotted spoon to lower my peaches into the pot of boiling water.
- Let the peaches sit in the boiling water for about one minute.
Above: Place peaches in the pot of boiling water one by one, gently. I used a slotted spoon to lower my peaches into the pot of boiling water. Let the peaches sit in the boiling water for about one minute.
Below: Immediately place the peaches from the boiling water in a bowl that has cold water. Let the peaches sit in the water for a few minutes.
Last Step - Peel Peaches!
Now you are ready to peel the peaches. I took a knife to cut the peach skin just a little and then basically the skin just slid off. You could also just use your fingers to pinch the skin and pull it off. It is so easy! And if you wanted to get really pretty slices for a tart or other recipe, you are all set.
And, isn't it great that you didn't have to lose any delicious peach fruit in the process!
I found this resource that illustrates two additional methods for peeling peaches.
Uses For Your Peeled Peaches -
- Slice and use in your favorite recipes.
- Slice and freeze for later use.
- Slice and make a delicious smoothie.
- Use for jam.
- Ready for canning.
- Make baby food.
Pretty clever, huh?
Easiest Way To Peel Peaches For Freezing?
- Using this blanching peaches method.
How To Peel Peaches Without Boiling:
- Use a peeler or small sharp paring knife.
- But, I much prefer the blanching (boiling water) of this post for peeling peaches as the skins fall off like magic!
Can You Peel A Peach With A Peeler?
- Yes, as stated above, you can use a vegetable peeler, but you may find you like the blanching (boiling water) kitchen hack technique much easier!
Peeling Peaches With The Microwave:
- Wash peaches
- Using a knife, cut an X in the bottom of the peach.
- Microwave in a dish for about 30 seconds.
- Peel back skin of peach where you cut the X. It should fall away easily.
- I prefer the blanching (boiling water) method as I can do a whole bunch of peaches fast and easy!
Do You Need To Peel Peaches For Pie?
- No, you don't have to, but you might prefer the taste and texture with peeled peaches (I do!).
Do You Peel Peaches For A Peach Cobbler?
- Yes, I do and it makes all the difference in taste and texture!
What is your favorite way to peel peaches?
This will become your favorite easy way to peel peaches! It is a great kitchen hack!
- 1 bunch of peaches
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Wash the peaches.
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Fill a pot with water. Heat until a low rolling boil. Fill a bowl with water and add ice cubes. Set aside.
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Using a slotted spoon, add peaches slowly, one at a time. Lower gently into the boiling water.
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Remove the peaches after they have been in the boiling water for about 60 seconds. Immediately put in the bowl of water and ice cubes. This will cool them down and stop the cooking process.
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Leave the peaches in the bowl of water and ice cubes for a few minutes. Then remove to a plate. Once fully cooled, you can peel them. Take a knife to cut a little slit where you should be able to peel easily. Or pinch the peach with your fingers and the peel should slide off easily.
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Slice the peaches and they are ready for your favorite recipes.
bjg says
Interesting technique- can you think of any other fruits one could do this with?
Christine says
Thanks! I would love to try this with tomatoes next!
Diana says
after boiling, you need to put tomatoes in iced water - with ice cubes and the skill will virtually slip right off.
Christine Galvani says
Hi Diana, Good point for peeling tomatoes, this point is about peeling peaches.