Wholemeal Pasta
Wholemeal pasta, a staple in many pantries worldwide, is a food product derived from a blend of water and wholemeal durum wheat semolina. This pasta...
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Peaches, the succulent fruits of the Prunus persica L. Batsch., are part of the arboreal plant family that also includes other fruit-bearing trees such as those that yield plums, apricots, cherries, black cherries, and almonds. These fruits are typically enjoyed during summer, characterized by their aromatic scent, sweet taste, and high water content. They are also rich in fiber, mineral salts, and vitamins.
Peaches are botanically classified as "true fruits" within the "simple" group. They are fleshy fruits that are organized morphologically as drupes. A peach is encased by an exocarp (skin) which can either be smooth or fuzzy, and colored red, yellow, white, or a combination of these shades.
The mesocarp (middle layer) is fleshy, and its color and consistency vary depending on the variety of the peach. The endocarp, or the "heart" of the fruit, has a woody texture and houses a single seed. This seed, if left intact within the shell, can pass through the digestive tract of animals unharmed. It is almond-shaped and sometimes used as a "bitter almond". However, it is worth noting that the amygdalin in bitter almonds can release hydrocyanic acid, a potentially toxic compound for the body.
Peaches belong to the VI food group, known for their sweetness and moderate energy intake. The calories in peaches primarily come from fructose, while proteins and lipids contribute minimally. They do not affect cholesterol levels as they are free from cholesterol and significant quantities of saturated fats.
Despite their sweetness, peaches can be consumed excessively during the summer season due to their thirst-quenching properties. A medium-sized peach weighs around 150-200g, and overconsumption can impact blood sugar levels, triglycerides, and body weight.
Peaches are a good source of fiber, especially when consumed with the peel. They also contain a decent amount of provitamins A or retinol equivalents, and their salt profile benefits from a high concentration of potassium.
Peaches come in various types, differentiated by the color of their skin, presence or absence of external hair, color and consistency of the pulp, and its adhesion to the stone. Some of the well-known varieties include:
While all peaches can be enjoyed raw, some are more suited for processing into jam, dehydrated fruit, fruit in syrup, fruit juices, or as an ingredient in other preparations like yogurt.
The peach tree, native to China, was imported to Persia and then Europe via trade routes. The colonial influence of the Roman Empire facilitated its spread throughout the Mediterranean.
A medium-sized tree, the peach tree can reach up to 8 meters in height and has a relatively superficial root system. Its bark is ash-brown in color, with sparse, spread apart, red-brown branches. The leaves of the peach tree are lanceolate, narrow, and serrated. The flowers, which bloom before the leaves, are hermaphroditic, light or dark pink in color, equipped with five petals and numerous stamens.
In conclusion, peaches are not just delicious fruits but also a rich source of nutrients. Their various types offer different flavors and uses, making them a versatile addition to our diet. The peach tree, with its beautiful flowers, also adds aesthetic value to our environment.
