Putting peaches in ice water serves several purposes in the peeling process. Firstly, it helps to stop the cooking process. When you score the peaches and blanch them in boiling water, it begins to soften the skin and loosen it from the flesh. However, if you leave the peaches in the hot water for too long, they can become overcooked and mushy. By transferring them to an ice bath, the cold water rapidly cools the peaches, halting the cooking process and ensuring they do not become overly soft.
Additionally, the ice water also makes the peaches easier to handle. After being in the boiling water, the peaches are hot to the touch, which can make it challenging to hold and work with them. Placing them in the ice water quickly cools them down, making them more comfortable to handle without the risk of burning your hands.
The ice bath also helps to firm up the peaches slightly. The rapid cooling from the ice water causes the flesh of the peaches to contract slightly, which can make it easier to peel off the skin. The firmness of the peaches also helps to prevent them from becoming overly mushy or breaking apart when you peel them.
Furthermore, the ice water bath is beneficial for preserving the color and texture of the peaches. The cold water helps to set the vibrant color of the peach flesh, preventing it from becoming dull or discolored. It also helps to maintain the firmness of the fruit, ensuring that it retains its juicy and succulent texture.
In my personal experience, I have found that using an ice bath for peaches not only makes the peeling process easier but also enhances the overall appearance and taste of the fruit. The peaches come out of the ice water looking vibrant and fresh, ready to be peeled and enjoyed in various recipes or eaten as a healthy snack.
To summarize, putting peaches in ice water after blanching them serves multiple purposes. It stops the cooking process, cools down the peaches for easier handling, firms up the fruit for easier peeling, preserves the color and texture, and enhances the overall appearance and taste of the peaches.
