Freestone peach and nectarine season is off to a great start! The hot, dry weather we’ve been having makes the peaches and nectarines super sweet and juicy! Below you’ll find an amazing recipe to use this fruit: Maple Nectarine Iced Tea!
Right now, both peaches and nectarines are available in pick-your-own. But first, let’s dive into some FAQ’s about these fruits.
Are Nectarines a Cross Between Peaches and Plums?
No, nectarines aren’t a cross between peaches and anything else.
Are Nectarines Genetically Modified Peaches?
Nope! Nectarines are not genetically modified peaches. Peaches and nectarines are related, but they are not genetically modified. Both have yellow and white fleshed varieties. Nectarines are essentially a fuzz-less peach, but they have some distinctive qualities too.
When & Where Did Peaches Originate?
Peaches originated in China thousands of years ago, and made their way into European trade markets in the 16th century.
Can You Taste the Difference?
Some people can’t tell much of a difference between peaches and nectarines. The primary difference is in the texture. Nectarines tend to be firmer with smoother skin and peaches are a little softer with fuzzy skin. Typically yellow-fleshed peaches and nectarines have a bolder flavor with a bit more tartness and white-fleshed peaches and nectarines have a sweeter, milder flavor.
Can You Can Nectarines?
Nectarines are slightly less acidic than peaches, so some varieties are not safe for canning. The best way to preserve any white-fleshed peach or nectarine is to freeze it.
Can You Bake with Nectarines?
Yes! Nectarines can be substituted for peaches in any recipe. Keep in mind that yellow nectarines will yield a better result than white nectarines in cooking.
What Else Can You Do with Nectarines?
Nectarines are so tasty and versatile! My favorite way to enjoy them is sliced on top of granola with either milk or yogurt. I also love them on top of vanilla ice cream! They’re great to just eat plain as a snack. If you’re packing them with you, it’s best to place them in a small container that won’t allow them to roll around and get bruised.
Another delicious way to enjoy nectarines is in beverages, like smoothies or even this Maple Nectarine Iced Tea! Peach iced tea is such a refreshing treat in the summer. This recipe can be made with peaches or nectarines, yellow or white!
Maple Nectarine Iced Tea
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 5 min
- Total Time: 10 min
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 bags English Breakfast black tea
- 2 tsp maple syrup (more or less to taste)
- Juice of 1 nectarine
- 1–2 trays ice cubes
Instructions
- Boil the water, then steep both tea bags in a single mug for 4 minutes. Remove tea bags and discard.
- Stir in the maple syrup.
- Juice the nectarine. I used a citrus juicer, but you could also use a juicer or blender and then strain it through a cheesecloth.
- Add the juice to the tea. In a durable container such as a Pyrex 4-quart container or a metal bowl, stir the ice cubes in one at a time. (Be careful! Mixing hot and cold liquids can cause glass to break.)
- Serve and enjoy!
Keywords: peach iced tea, maple iced tea, sweet tea, nectarine iced tea