Blanching peaches is a simple process that helps in easier peeling, preserving color, and enhancing the flavor of your fruit. It’s perfect for peach recipes such as pies, jams, and preserves. Follow these 11 steps to blanch peaches with ease.

1. Choose ripe peaches: Select firm, evenly colored peaches that are free from bruises, blemishes, and mold. Soft peaches will lose their texture after blanching.

2. Clean your workspace: Ensure that your countertops and utensils are clean to maintain hygiene when handling the peaches.

3. Rinse the peaches: Gently wash the peaches under cold running water to remove any dirt, insects or residues.

4. Make a small ‘X’ incision: Using a paring knife, make a shallow ‘X’ shaped cut at the base of each peach. This will help in easy peeling after blanching.

5. Fill a large pot with water: Choose a pot big enough to hold all the peaches without overcrowding them and add enough water so that it fully covers them when they are submerged.

6. Bring the water to a boil: Place the pot of water on a stovetop burner and heat until it reaches a rolling boil.

7. Prepare an ice bath: Meanwhile, fill a large bowl with ice cubes and cold water to create an ice bath for cooling the peaches after blanching.

8. Add the peaches to boiling water: Carefully lower each peach into the boiling water using tongs or a slotted spoon. Ensure they are fully submerged.

9. Blanch for 30-60 seconds: Allow the peaches to boil for 30-60 seconds depending on their ripeness and size. Small or ripe ones may need less time; larger or less ripe ones may need more.

10. Transfer peaches to ice bath: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the peaches from the boiling water and immediately place them into the ice bath. Allow them to cool down for 1-2 minutes.

11. Peel the peaches: Once cooled, remove the peaches from the ice water. The skin should easily slide off when you pinch and pull it near the ‘X’ incision. If the skin doesn’t come off easily, re-blanch for 15-30 seconds and try again.

Congratulations! You have successfully blanched your peaches. Now you can enjoy them in your favorite recipes, preserve them for later use, or simply eat them as a delicious snack!