From cotton candy grapes to sumo oranges, novelty fruits have become quite popular over the last few years. Our new favorite, however, is one you may have never heard of—donut peaches!
These peaches look like a squashed honeycrisp apple, as they are lighter in color than regular peaches and have a flattened shape similar to a donut or Saturn's rings. Here's everything you need to know about this tasty summer fruit (we know you'll enjoy them as much as we do!)
What Is a Donut Peach?
The donut peach, also referred to as a Saturn, UFO, Jupiter, Chinese or flat white peach, is a variety of flat peaches that have been traced back to ancient China. Rumor has it these donut-shaped peaches were first brought to the Western world thousands of years ago via the Silk Road, but they still remain a novelty in the U.S.
Donut peaches are named for their similar shape, but also happen to be extra-sweet like donuts, thanks to a honey gene found in most Chinese peaches that give them a candy-like taste. The inside of a donut peach is creamy and juicy, and even has a smaller, easy-to-remove pit!
Are Donut Peaches Healthy?
We're advocates of eating fruit daily as part of a healthy diet, and donut peaches can certainly be included in your daily count. While we aren't sure of the exact nutritional values of these squat-shaped peaches, we're sure they contain a little fiber, potassium and Vitamin C—just like a traditional peach does.
Donut peaches have lower acidity levels than the average peach, making them a good choice for those who don't tolerate acidic foods well. However, these extra-sweet peaches likely have a higher sugar content, which might be something those with diabetes or who are on a low-carb diet should be mindful of.
Where Can I Buy Donut Peaches?
Donut peaches are popping up everywhere this summer, and they are easier to find than you'd think! They are typically available from May until late August, and we have currently spotted them at farmers' markets and giant food retailers.
You can pick up a bushel (or five) at your local Trader Joe's, Safeway, Wegmans, Whole Foods, Publix, The Fresh Market and Sprouts. We'll keep our eye out for more locations, as these babies hit peak season.
How to Use Donut Peaches
Donut peaches are a great substitute for any of your favorite peach recipes, but Specialty Produce warns they may alter the taste of a recipe slightly since they're sweeter and less tart than a traditional peach.
While these funky little peaches are best enjoyed as is on a hot summer's day, we have some fabulous recipes to use them up.
Peach and Gorgonzola Chicken Pizza
Ditch the tomato sauce and give pizza a makeover by topping with chicken, fresh peach slices and Gorgonzola cheese. A drizzle of tangy balsamic reduction provides the perfect balance to the sweet summer fruit.
View Recipe: Peach and Gorgonzola Chicken Pizza
Chicken and Bulgur Salad With Peaches
A quick-cooking whole grain, bulgur is perfect for time-crunched weeknight cooking. If you can’t find it on the grains aisle, you can substitute quinoa or whole-wheat couscous.
View Recipe: Chicken and Bulgur Salad With Peaches
Peach-Vanilla Slab Pie
The next time you need a dessert for a crowd—backyard barbecue, picnic, block party, or potluck—think slab pie. This version pairs juicy peaches with heady vanilla bean for an extra-sweet treat.
View Recipe: Peach-Vanilla Slab Pie
This story originally appeared on EatingWell.
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