Description
Delight in the juicy sweetness of our peaches, perfect for snacking, adding to salads, baking into pies or cobblers, or blending into smoothies for a delicious treat. Available in our Local Farm Shop in Bellaghy, Mid Ulster Area.
🍑 Peaches are juicy, fragrant fruits from the Prunus persica tree, cherished for their sweet flavor and velvety skin. Here’s a full breakdown of what makes them so delightful:
🌳 Botanical Overview
- Belong to the Rosaceae family, alongside cherries, almonds, and roses
- Native to China, cultivated for over 8,000 years
- Trees are deciduous, typically growing 3–4 meters tall
- Blossoms are pink and bloom in early spring
🍑 Fruit Characteristics
- Skin: Usually fuzzy, though smooth-skinned varieties are called nectarines
- Flesh: Can be white, yellow, or red; juicy and aromatic
- Pit: A hard stone in the center, classifying peaches as drupes
- Types:
- Freestone: Flesh separates easily from the pit
- Clingstone: Flesh clings tightly to the pit
- Donut peaches: Flattened shape with a sweet, mild flavor
🌍 Cultural & Historical Significance
- Symbol of longevity and immortality in Chinese mythology
- Introduced to Europe via Persia and the Silk Road
- Revered in art and literature for representing beauty, love, and the fleeting nature of life
🥗 Culinary Uses
- Eaten fresh, grilled, baked in pies and cobblers
- Used in jams, smoothies, salads, and savory dishes
- Peach wood is prized for smoking meats
💪 Health Benefits
- Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants
- Supports skin health, digestion, and immune function
- Low in calories, making them a great snack for weight management
