The peach (Prunus persica) is a deciduous tree, native to North-West China, in the region between the Tarim basin and the north slopes of the Kunlun Shan mountains, where it was first domesticated and cultivated. It bears an edible juicy fruit also called a peach. The species name persica refers to its widespread cultivation in Persia, whence it was transplanted to Europe. It belongs to the genus Prunus which includes the cherry and plum, in the family Rosaceae. The peach is classified with the almond in the subgenus Amygdalus, distinguished from the other subgenera by the corrugated seed shell.Peaches and nectarines are the same species, even though they are regarded commercially as different fruits. In contrast to peach whose fruits present the characteristic fuzz on the skin nectarines are characterized by the absence of fruit skin trichomes (fuzz-less fruit); genetic studies suggest nectarines are produced due to a recessive allele, whereas peaches are produced from a dominant allele for fuzzy skin.China is the world's largest producer of peaches and nectarines.
Food Property | Type | Description |
---|---|---|
Flavor Profile | Sweet | The peach ripened on the vine will have a natural sweetness that is characteristic of ripe fruit. |
Sour | Depending on the ripeness of the peach, there may be a slight sourness present, balancing out the sweetness. | |
Astringency | The peach may have a slight astringent quality that is common in some varieties of peaches. | |
Texture | Tenderness | A ripe peach will be soft and juicy, with a tender texture that is easy to bite into. |
Moisture | Ripe peaches are known for their high moisture content, resulting in a juicy and succulent texture. | |
Nutritional Value | Micronutrients | Peaches are rich in micronutrients such as vitamins A and C, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese. |
Color | Natural Pigments | A ripe peach will exhibit a vibrant orange or yellow color that comes from natural pigments in the fruit. |
Aroma | Volatile Compounds | The aroma of a ripe peach will be fragrant and sweet, thanks to the presence of volatile compounds in the fruit. |
Chemical Composition | Acidity/Alkalinity (pH) | Ripe peaches tend to have a slightly acidic pH, which contributes to their bright and tangy flavor. |
Food Pairing App - Version 1.2.0