How do you peel tomatoes or peaches when you need to remove the skin?

Question

Need to remove tomato skin? Learn the simple blanching method to make the skins on tomatoes and peaches slip right off. Get the easy steps for perfect fruit.

Answer 1

The easiest way to peel tomatoes or peaches is by blanching them in boiling water for a short period, then transferring them to an ice bath. This loosens the skin, making it easy to peel off.

Detailed Explanation:

Blanching is a simple and effective method for removing the skin from tomatoes and peaches. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes/Peaches: Wash the tomatoes or peaches thoroughly. For tomatoes, lightly score an 'X' on the bottom (opposite the stem end) with a sharp knife. For peaches, scoring is optional but can help.

2. Boil Water: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil.

3. Blanch: Gently lower the tomatoes or peaches into the boiling water. Blanch tomatoes for 30-60 seconds, and peaches for 45-60 seconds. The timing depends on the ripeness of the fruit; riper fruit needs less time.

4. Ice Bath: Prepare an ice bath (a bowl filled with ice and water). Immediately transfer the blanched tomatoes or peaches from the boiling water to the ice bath. This stops the cooking process.

5. Peel: After a minute or two in the ice bath, the skin should easily peel away from the fruit. Start at the scored 'X' on the tomatoes or any loose edges on the peaches and gently pull the skin off.

Pro Tip:

Don't over-blanch! Leaving the tomatoes or peaches in the boiling water for too long will cause them to become mushy. The goal is just to loosen the skin, not to cook the fruit.