This recipe for delicious pickled peaches brings together the sweet, juicy flavor of peaches with the tangy and spicy goodness of pickling spices. The pickling process not only enhances the natural flavor of the peaches but also gives them a delightful crunch. These pickled peaches are perfect for adding a touch of sweetness and acidity to salads, sandwiches, and even cheese boards. Make a batch of these pickled peaches and enjoy their versatile flavor for months to come.
Ingredients
- 6 ripe peaches
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
Directions
- Wash the peaches thoroughly and blanch them in boiling water for about 1 minute. This will make it easier to peel the skin off. Remove the peaches from boiling water and transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water.
- Once the peaches are cool, peel off the skin and slice them into wedges. Remove the pits and set the peach slices aside.
- In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, peppercorns, mustard seeds, and red chili flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the pickling mixture for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Pack the peach slices into sterilized mason jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
- Carefully pour the hot pickling liquid into the jars, ensuring that the peach slices are fully covered. Leave about ¼ inch of headspace.
- Remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jars on the counter and adjust the liquid level if needed.
- Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth and seal them tightly with sterilized lids and bands.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and preservation.
- Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely. Check the lids for a proper seal by pressing on the center of each lid. If it is firm and doesn't move, it is sealed correctly.
- Store the pickled peaches in a cool, dark place for at least 2 weeks before consuming. The longer they sit, the better the flavors will meld together.
- Once opened, store the pickled peaches in the refrigerator and consume within a month.
Interesting Facts
Pickling fruits like peaches can help extend their shelf life and preserve them for a longer time.
Peaches are packed with vitamins A and C, making this pickled version a healthy addition to your meals.
Using ripe peaches will ensure a sweeter and juicier end result in the pickling process.