Have you ever bit into a peach that looked perfect, only to be surprised by the hard, sour core? Wondering if there's a way to make hard peaches ripen faster without having to wait weeks in the basket?
Hard peaches are sometimes a nightmare. At the market and in trade Peaches are often picked too early, as they are easier to preserve during transport. This is why they may look tempting, but in reality they are still hard and tasteless.
A hard peach can be a real pain when you're craving a juicy bite or making dessert. But there's a quick and surefire way to they ripen overnight.
Paper bag and banana trick
Although it seems almost unbelievable, you can just one banana and a regular paper bag accelerate the ripening of peaches. Bananas release ethylene gas, which promotes the natural ripening of fruit.
@brunchwithbabs Babs knows Best w/ @food52 #foodhack #fruithack #food52 #goodpoint
When you seal hard peaches in a bag with a banana, an environment will be created where they will already be 24 hours become softer and noticeably sweeter. This method is extremely simple and does not require any special knowledge or equipment.
Preparation process
Open the bag and carefully place a few peaches in it. Add one ripe banana and close the bag to keep as much air inside as possible. Once you have everything ready, close the bag leave in a bright place in the kitchen, for example on a shelf near a window. During the day, the sun's heat will further accelerate the release of ethylene. After one day Check to see how soft the peaches have become. If they are still a bit firm, leave them for a few more hours.
What to expect the next day?
When you open the bag, you will feel that it is softer to the touch, and the core will give slightly under the pressure of your fingers. The peaches will be fragrant and have a fuller flavor. The fruit prepared in this way is ideal for cutting into pieces, adding to yogurt or making a refreshing fruit salad. If you don't plan to eat them right away, store them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for a few days.
Additional tips for faster ripening
If you have more peaches, add more bananas, as more ethylene will mean faster ripening. However, make sure to really seal the bag, otherwise the gas will leak out.
During the procedure Do not wash peaches. as moisture can accelerate rotting. If you want the peaches to soften further, you can leave them in the bag for a day longer, but check regularly to make sure they don't spoil.
You can also soften hard tomatoes or pears in a similar way.
