Mutations of the peach with smooth rather than furry skin are called nectarines. Thus, they belong to the genus Prunus and the rose family (Rosaceae). They are also called smooth or naked peaches because of their surface.
Here’s what you should know about the nectarine.
Mutations of the peach with smooth skin instead of furry skin are called nectarines. As such, they belong to the genus Prunus and the rose family (Rosaceae). The nectarine also closely resembles the peach in color, flesh and shape. Nevertheless, there is no danger of confusion because of the skin. Inside, the nectarine is yellow, white variants light yellow. The stone is equally reminiscent of that of the peach. It is not uncommon for nectarines to grow on peach trees. Thus, moreover, a nectarine stone can also become a peach tree. The reason for this is mutations, as the skin of the nectarine is a recessive trait in the genetics of the peach. Nectarine trees grow up to eight meters high. The side facing the sun is reddish in color. At the turn of time, the nectarine was already known in Greece, Persia and China. Since the 17th century it has been planted and cultivated in England. At that time, however, it was far less popular. Its popularity has increased especially in the last decades, to which the United States contributed significantly through its cultivations. The nectarine is cultivated mainly in France, Greece, Italy, California, Spain, South Africa and Chile. The tree requires a warm climate. It is sensitive to frost and in Germany only thrives in mild areas with vineyards. These include, for example, the Rhineland and the Palatinate. There are about forty different nectarine varieties in the main growing regions. These include, for example, new varieties with flat and flattened shapes. Fully ripened nectarines taste sweet and fruity. They have a very juicy consistency. If, on the other hand, they are still unripe, their taste is rather sour or bitter. The flesh is somewhat firmer than that of the peach and the white nectarines develop a stronger aroma than the normal ones. The assumption that the nectarine is a mixture of plum and peach is wrong. Nevertheless, the urban legend is quite persistent. Seasonally, nectarines arrive in German supermarkets from Italy and Spain starting in April. However, harvesting in the southern countries does not begin on a large scale until summer. The peak season here is between July and September. In winter, the fruit comes from Chile, South Africa and Argentina. Thus, with us nectarines can be found in stores all year round.
Importance for health
Nectarines are not only very healthy, but also almost fat-free and extremely low in calories. This makes them particularly suitable for the figure-conscious, and in summer they are a good alternative for sweets and milk ice cream. They are refreshing and hydrating. The flesh also contains large amounts of vitamins and minerals that the body needs to stay healthy. In general, the nectarine is considered more nutritious than a peach. The reason for this is the lower water content in nectarines. It is rich in sugar, making it a good source of energy. The seeds of the nectarine should not be eaten, however, as they are exceedingly toxic if eaten in excess. They contain amygdalin. The substance is hydrocyanic and is present in 8% of the seeds.
Ingredients and nutritional values
| Nutritional information |
Amount per 100 gram |
| Calories 44 | Fat content 0.3 g |
| Cholesterol 0 mg |
Sodium 0 mg |
| Potassium 201 mg | Carbohydrates 11 g |
| Protein 1.1 g |
Vitamin C 5.4 mg |
100 grams of the fruit contain only about 50 calories. The fat content is just 0.3 grams. For this nectarines have about 11 grams of carbohydrates and about 2.2 grams of fiber. The same amount of fruit contains 1.1 grams of protein. In addition, nectarines contain various vitamins that make the fruit particularly healthy. One of the ingredients is beta carotene. In addition, there are vitamin E and distinguished B vitamins. In μg amounts, nectarines also contain folate. With 5.4 milligrams of vitamin C per 100 grams, nectarines are not among the best suppliers, but they still contribute their share to an adult’s daily vitamin C requirement.In addition, the fruits contain provitamin A, which is converted into vitamin A in the body, as well as calcium, potassium and iron. The minerals contribute to the maintenance of bones and nails and help in blood formation and oxygen transport within the human organism.
Intolerances and allergies
Nectarines are quite significant allergologically, as they can cause oral allergy syndrome, similar to peaches and various other fruits. This is a hypersensitivity reaction of the body to ingredients in the fruit, occurring primarily in the mouth. Symptoms include an itchy palate, swelling or blisters in the mouth, tenderness or tingling on the tongue. In addition, there may also be pain and allergic reactions in the gastrointestinal tract. These can manifest themselves in the form of flatulence, diarrhea or heartburn. The latter is caused by the high acid content in the nectarine, which can lead to discomfort in some people. Birch pollen, as well as hazel or alder, can also cause cross-allergies that are noticeable in both nectarines and peaches.
Shopping and kitchen tips
When buying nectarines, the appearance of the skin is especially important. If it is sunken, wrinkled and soft, the fruit has already been lying too long. The condition should be uninjured and plump. Often nectarines are sold still in the unripe state because of their shelf life. At room temperatures, they usually ripen after two to three days and are then particularly sweet and juicy. However, if nectarines are already ripe when purchased, they should be eaten as quickly as possible, as they rot quickly. However, the fruit will keep for a few days in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator. The preparation of nectarines is simple. They should be rinsed under running water due to possible pesticides or contaminants. After blotting them dry, they can either be eaten directly or cut in half by length. Then the stone can be extracted and the fruit eaten. Depending on the preparation, the halves are cut into wedges or cubes.
Preparation tips
The fruit is particularly suitable for compote or the preparation of jams. Nectarines are often used as a topping for summer cakes or pies. But they are also suitable for fruity desserts. Fruit slices on ice cream are particularly popular. Nectarines add a summery, fresh flavor to the dish. Other options include the preparation of spirits from the juice of the nectarine. Thus, they are generally suitable as a base for various drinks – including juices. Moreover, nectarines can be used not only for sweet dishes, but also for savory dishes. They do especially well in salads, but can also be served with poultry or other meat. The reason for this is their sour note. Especially in Asian cuisine, the fruit is also popular in cooking and is often used in everyday dishes.
