Peach nectar

Peach Nectar – A Sweet Indulgence from Seasonal Fruits

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 5-6 bottles of 500 ml

Welcome to my kitchen, where today we will prepare a delicious and aromatic peach nectar, perfect for warm summer days or to bring a touch of sunshine to cooler days. This simple and quick recipe transforms fresh peaches into the ideal beverage, full of flavor and nutritional benefits. Additionally, I will provide you with some useful tips to achieve the best possible result!

A Short Story about Nectar

Peach nectar is a drink that reminds us of childhood, of days spent in nature, and of the sweet taste of seasonal fruits. This recipe is an excellent way to preserve the flavors of peaches, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the year. Peaches are not only tasty but also very healthy, being rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 kg of ripe peaches (choose well-ripened peaches, preferably organic, for a more intense flavor)
- 200-300 g of raw sugar (adjustable according to preferences)
- 1 lemon (for freshness and a touch of acidity)
- 1 l of water (enough to partially cover the peach slices)
- Clean bottles for bottling (make sure they are sterilized)

Step by Step – How to Make Peach Nectar

1. Preparing the Peaches:
Start by washing the peaches thoroughly under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities. You can rinse them 2-3 times to ensure they are clean. After washing, slice them and remove the pits. Try to keep the slices of similar size to ensure they cook evenly.

2. Boiling the Peach Slices:
In a large pot, add the peach slices and pour in enough water to partially cover them. It is important not to cover them completely, as the peaches will release juice during boiling. Add the lemon cut into quarters to enhance the flavor.

3. Cooking:
Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil for about 20 minutes. The boiling time may vary depending on how ripe the peaches are and the quantity you have. When the flesh starts to detach easily from the skin, it's time to turn off the heat.

4. Blending:
Using a blender, blend the peach slices and lemon (after removing the peel) until you obtain a smooth paste. You can adjust the consistency by adding water gradually. Don’t forget to add the raw sugar to taste. I recommend starting with 200 g and adjusting according to your preferences. The raw sugar will give a more caramelized and complex flavor to the nectar.

5. Bottling:
Pour the hot nectar into the clean bottles, leaving a little space at the top. Seal them well and place them in a pot of water, making sure the water reaches 1 cm below the cap. Sterilize them for 30 minutes.

6. Cooling and Storing:
Once the sterilization time has expired, allow the bottles to cool in the water they boiled in or cover them with towels. After they have completely cooled, store them in airy and cool places, preferably in a pantry.

Useful Tips

- Choosing Peaches: Opt for ripe peaches with a strong aroma. Those that are slightly soft to the touch work great.
- Sugar: You can experiment with different types of sugar, such as coconut sugar or honey, to give the nectar a different note.
- Preservation: Ensure that the bottles are very clean to prevent the nectar from fermenting. If you notice any change in smell or color, it is better not to consume them.

Delicious Variations

- Mint Nectar: Add a few fresh mint leaves during boiling for a refreshing taste.
- Ginger Nectar: If you like a spicier flavor, you can add a few slices of fresh ginger during the boiling process.

Ideal Combinations

This peach nectar pairs perfectly with various recipes, such as:

- Refreshing Drinks: Use nectar as a base for cocktails or refreshing drinks, mixing it with sparkling water.
- Desserts: Drizzle nectar over ice cream or yogurt for a quick and delicious dessert.
- Pancakes: Use it as syrup for pancakes, adding a touch of fresh fruit to breakfast.

Nutritional Benefits

Peaches are rich in vitamins A and C, which help maintain skin health and boost the immune system. They also contain antioxidants that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Peach nectar is a natural alternative to store-bought juices, having a lower sugar content and no additives.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen peaches? Yes, frozen peaches can be used, but make sure to let them thaw completely before using.
2. How can I check if the nectars are well sterilized? Check the seals of the bottles; if they bend when submerged in water, it means they have been properly sterilized.
3. How long do the nectars last? If stored correctly, they can last up to a year.

Now you are ready to get to work! Enrich your pantry with this delicious peach nectar, which will bring a touch of joy to every glass. Happy cooking and enjoy every sip!