When it comes to making preserves with peaches, the best variety to choose is the clingstone peach. These peaches are known for their smaller size compared to freestone peaches, but don’t let that fool you! They make up for it with their softness, sweetness, and juiciness, which are all ideal qualities for making preserves.
Finding clingstone peaches may be a bit more challenging as they are not as commonly available in grocery stores. However, your best bet is to visit your local farmers market. Farmers markets often have a wider variety of fruits and vegetables, including unique and specialty varieties like clingstone peaches.
One of the reasons clingstone peaches are preferred for canning and preserving is because their flesh clings tightly to the pit, making it easier to remove the pit when preparing the peaches for preserving. The flesh is also softer, which allows it to break down more easily when cooked, resulting in a smoother texture in your preserves.
In terms of flavor, clingstone peaches are known for being exceptionally sweet and juicy. This makes them perfect for preserving, as the natural sweetness of the peaches will shine through in your preserves. The juiciness of the fruit also contributes to a more luscious and mouthwatering final product.
Personally, I have had great success using clingstone peaches for making peach preserves. The flavor and texture of the peaches really elevate the preserves, and they have become a favorite among family and friends. I remember visiting a farmers market and stumbling upon a booth selling clingstone peaches. The vendor explained the unique qualities of these peaches and recommended them specifically for preserving. Intrigued, I decided to give them a try, and I was not disappointed.
To summarize, clingstone peaches are the best variety for making preserves due to their softness, sweetness, and juiciness. While they may be more difficult to find, a visit to your local farmers market is your best bet. The clingstone peaches’ flesh clings tightly to the pit, making them easier to prepare for preserving. Their softness and juiciness contribute to a smoother texture and more intense flavor in your preserves. So, if you’re looking to make delicious and flavorful peach preserves, be sure to seek out clingstone peaches at your local farmers market.
