Peach nectar

Peach or Apricot Nectar – A Sweet and Natural Indulgence

Making peach or apricot nectar is an art that reminds us of warm, sunny summers when fresh fruits turn into delicious beverages. This simple and quick recipe will help you create a fragrant nectar, packed with vitamins and energy, perfect for hot days or to be enjoyed all year round.

Total preparation time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 10 servings (depending on bottle size)

Essential ingredients:
- 5 kg peaches or apricots (choose ripe but firm fruits for a more intense flavor)
- 400 g sugar (or fructose, for a healthier option)
- 30 ml water
- a pinch of salicylate (for preservation)

A bit of history:
Fruit nectar has a rich tradition, being made since ancient times when people sought effective ways to preserve fruits for winter consumption. This simple recipe has been passed down through generations, each with its little secret, but all based on the desire to preserve the taste of summer in every sip.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the fruits:
- Start by washing the peaches or apricots thoroughly under cold running water. This step is essential for removing impurities.
- Let the fruits drain completely, then cut them in half and remove the pits. If using peaches, it is recommended to peel them, although the skin contains many vitamins.

2. Turning into puree:
- Use a blender or food processor to turn the fruits into a smooth puree. Make sure no large chunks remain for a pleasant consistency.

3. Boiling the nectar:
- Pour the puree into a large pot. Add the sugar and water, mixing well to combine.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a boil. Allow it to boil for 15-20 minutes. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- During boiling, you will notice a foam forming on top. Use a spatula or skimmer to remove this foam, ensuring the nectar maintains a smooth texture.

4. Adding the preservative:
- About a minute before turning off the heat, add a pinch of salicylate. This will help preserve the nectar for a longer period.

5. Bottling the nectar:
- Prepare the bottles by sterilizing them with hot water or warming them in the oven. This will prevent them from cracking when filled with hot liquid.
- Pour the hot nectar into the prepared bottles, filling them to about 1 cm from the top. Seal the bottles with caps or cover them with double-layered cling film.

6. Cooling and storing:
- Place the bottles between blankets, covering them well. This step will help the nectar cool gradually, preserving its flavors. Leave them like this until completely cooled.

Serving suggestions:
Peach or apricot nectar is delicious enjoyed on its own, but it can also be diluted with sparkling water or added to cocktails. An excellent combination is peach nectar with gin and a few fresh mint leaves. Enjoy it chilled, alongside a slice of vanilla cake or oatmeal cookies for a perfect dessert.

Nutritional benefits:
Both peaches and apricots are rich in vitamins A and C, contributing to skin health and immune function. This natural nectar is an excellent source of antioxidants, ideal for a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits to make nectar?
- Absolutely! Nectar can be made from various seasonal fruits, such as plums, apples, or berries. Each fruit will add a unique flavor.

2. How can I store nectar for a longer time?
- Ensure the bottles are properly sealed and store them in a cool, dark place. If kept in the refrigerator, consuming within 6 months is ideal.

3. Is it necessary to use salicylate?
- Salicylate helps preserve the nectar, but if you plan to consume it within a short period, you can skip this step.

Tips for perfect nectar:
- Use high-quality, well-ripened fruits. The taste of the nectar will largely depend on the flavor of the fruits used.
- Experiment with different types of sugar; brown sugar will add a caramel note, while honey can provide an interesting floral taste.
- Try adding a hint of vanilla or cinnamon for an even more complex flavor profile.

Discover the joy of making peach or apricot nectar at home and turn every sip into a sweet summer memory!