Skip to main content

Brandied Poached Peaches

4.4

(12)

This recipe is an accompaniment for Pistachio Blancmanges .

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 1 hr

Cooks' note:

• Peaches can be poached and peeled 2 days ahead. Pour syrup over peaches and chill, covered. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

2/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
2 cups water
5 (4-inch-long) strips fresh orange zest
1/2 vanilla bean, halved lengthwise
8 firm-ripe small peaches (2 to 2 1/2 lb total)
1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons brandy or Cognac

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Bring sugar, orange juice, water, zest, and vanilla bean to a boil in a 4-quart heavy saucepan, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Add peaches, stem ends up. Cover pan and reduce heat, then poach peaches at a bare simmer 8 minutes. Turn peaches over and continue to poach, covered, until tender, 7 to 8 minutes more.

    Step 2

    Transfer peaches with a slotted spoon to a bowl or shallow dish to cool, reserving poaching liquid in saucepan. Lift out vanilla bean pod and scrape seeds into poaching liquid, then boil liquid until reduced to about 1 cup, 10 to 15 minutes. Pour syrup through a sieve into a small bowl or glass measure and cool. Stir in brandy (to taste).

    Step 3

    Peel peaches and serve whole with syrup.

Read More
Apple pie in doughnut hole form? We’re in love.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.
Like crispy gnocchi caprese and raspberry—brown butter skillet cake.
The secret to flavorful, never-greasy eggplant parm? Brine the eggplant first.
Like hot honey chicken with peaches and a dirty martini spritz.
Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.
Just as great with coffee for breakfast as it is with amaro for dessert.