English Name: Peach
Botanical Name: malum persicum
DESCRIPTION: A round juicy fruit with a rough stone with a thin dowing skin parts to reveal rich succulent flesh that is pinkish-yellow in color which is sweet and delicious.
Some say the fine experience of picking and eating a fully ripe peach from a tree has little for an unalloyed desirable pleasure.
ORIGIN: Peaches originated from China where they were cultivated since the early days of Chinese culture considered as the favorite fruit of emperors and the symbol of immortality and friendship. Peaches were first mentioned in Chinese writings dating back to the 10th century. From China, the “Persian apple” the translated Latin name, was introduced to the Romans by the Persians (now Iranians) and later to Europe by Alexander the Great.
Spanish explorers are credited for bringing the peach fruit to South America and then eventually to England and France where it became popular, but rare, treat. It was written “that no meal was complete without a fresh peach presented in a fancy cotton napkin” during Queen Victoria’s reign. In the early 17th century George Minifie, a horticulturist from England, brought the first peaches to the New World colonies, planting them at his estate in Virginia. It wasn’t until the 19th century that commercial peach production began in Maryland, Delaware, Georgia and Virginia. Today, peaches are grown in California, Washington State, South Carolina etc.
NATURAL BENEFITS: Peaches are perfect snack food for losing weight. It contains 35-50 calories and no fat fights against obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. They are as well rich in phytochemicals called phenols that act as antioxidants. Contains vitamin A & C can calm an upset stomach.
USES: Eaten raw as an appetizer before and for pleasure after food., used as jam, jellies etc. Used as great moisturizer and for other beauty products.
My Cookery Zone 