Featured Produce
Nectarines and Peaches
Nectarines are a variety of peach, not a cross between a peach and a plum, as is occasionally believed. Their name is derived from nectar - the food of the gods. Nectarines and peaches may be found growing on each other's trees. They are available from September to April, peaking in January and February.
The Romans thought peaches originated in Persia (Iran) because they travelled along the silk route from China to Europe. Thus they were known for a long time as the Persian Apple. They travelled into England in the 16th Century. They have been grown in Australia since settlement.
Nectarines are hand picked when near maturity, when they are firm enough to travel.
When selecting nectarines choose fragrant, plump fruit with smooth glossy skin. Allow them to ripen at room temperature, once ripe store in fridge.
To select peaches, avoid those which are hard and have a distinct green colour. These are likely to have been picked immature, and will not ripen.
To display stack fruit no more than 2 high and maintain regular rotation. Inspect new arrivals and display mature fruit immediately. Consumers appear to prefer peaches for immediate use, those not requiring ripening.
Should a recipe call for perfect halves, select freestone varieties.
To serve as a delicious light dessert, halve nectarines, sprinkle with galliano liquer or orange juice and brown sugar, grill lightly and serve with scalded cream.
If poaching peaches, poach small batches in the same syrup. The lucky last will be delightfully rich!
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