peaches
Peach syrup is a food product made from the juice of peaches. Syrup made from peaches is usually made at home, but can also be sold commercially. Other peach products include canned peach, peach jam, canned peach, and fresh peach. Peaches are grown primarily in the southeastern United States and are harvested from early June to mid-July.
Peach syrup is often used to top waffles.
To make peach syrup, peaches are peeled and pitted. The peeled peaches are then diced and added to a saucepan of cinnamon-sugar water. The mixture is brought to a boil and then cooked until the peaches are cooked to a pasty consistency. After the mixture is removed from the heat and allowed to cool, it is run through a blender and pureed until completely liquefied. Syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Commercially sold peach syrup is usually clear and thin, rather than the thicker homemade peach-colored version. Commercial manufacturers make the syrup by starting with a simple syrup of sugar and water and then adding peach flavoring. Commercial manufacturers may add food coloring to the finished syrup to make the liquid appear darker or more of a peach color. Additional chemicals may be added to help preserve the product and give the syrup a longer shelf life.
Some of the most common uses for peach syrup are in breakfast and dessert dishes. Pancakes and waffles with freshly cut peaches and syrup are a great way to enjoy peaches at the height of the season. Desserts like flambées or peach ice cream are also easy ways to display fresh-from-the-orchard peaches. Peach syrup can be heated by boiling it in a shallow saucepan on the stove or by heating it for a few seconds in the microwave. If combining the syrup with ice cream, it is best to wait until just before serving before pouring in the syrup so the ice cream does not melt.
Peach syrup is also used as an ingredient in canned peaches or peach preserves. Using peach syrup instead of just syrup or water, canned peaches have an even stronger peach flavor. Peach preserves are made by adding sugar and water to cut peaches and then cooking them until tender. The mixture is poured into sterilized jars, and then peach syrup is added to fill the jar. The lids are placed on and the jars are processed in a water bath until the lids are sucked into the jar and form an airtight seal.