Welcome to our Southern comfort food section! Today, we’re sharing a delightful recipe for Southern Fried Peaches. This simple yet delicious dish combines the natural sweetness of peaches with the rich flavors of butter and sugar, making it a perfect dessert or topping for ice cream, pancakes, or waffles. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 2 large firm peaches, not too ripe
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Peaches
- Peel and Slice Peaches: Peel the peaches and slice them into thick wedges. Firm peaches work best as they hold their shape better during cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Peaches
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Peaches: Add the peach slices to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften slightly.
- Add Sugars: Sprinkle the granulated sugar and brown sugar over the peaches. Stir gently to coat the peaches evenly with the sugar mixture.
- Cook: Continue cooking the peaches for another 5-7 minutes, or until the peaches are tender and the sugars have caramelized, creating a syrupy sauce.
Step 3: Serve
- Serve Hot: Serve the Southern Fried Peaches hot, drizzled with the caramelized syrup from the skillet. Enjoy them on their own or as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, waffles, or pound cake.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Peach Ripeness: Choose peaches that are firm but not too ripe to prevent them from becoming mushy during cooking.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the amount of salt in the dish.
- Sugars: Adjust the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference. You can also experiment with different types of sugar, such as raw sugar or honey, for varying flavors.
Variations
Spiced Fried Peaches
Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the sugar mixture for a spiced version.
Bourbon Fried Peaches
Add a splash (about 1-2 tablespoons) of bourbon to the skillet along with the sugar for a rich, boozy flavor.
Nutty Fried Peaches
Sprinkle 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for added texture and flavor.
Vanilla Fried Peaches
Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the syrupy sauce for a warm, aromatic touch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen or canned peaches?
While fresh peaches are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen or canned peaches in a pinch. If using canned peaches, drain them well before cooking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Southern Fried Peaches are best served fresh, but you can prepare them a few hours in advance and reheat gently before serving.
What can I serve with Southern Fried Peaches?
These fried peaches pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, pancakes, waffles, pound cake, or yogurt.
How can I make the dish less sweet?
Reduce the amount of granulated and brown sugar to suit your taste. You can also use a sugar substitute if desired.
Southern Fried Peaches are a simple yet incredibly delicious dessert that captures the essence of Southern comfort food. With their sweet, caramelized flavor and tender texture, they’re perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your family and friends