Peach Melba is a classic dessert that combines poached peaches, raspberry sauce, and vanilla ice cream. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

  • For the Poached Peaches:
    • 4 ripe peaches
    • 2 cups water
    • 1 cup sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or 1 vanilla bean
    • Optional: A splash of lemon juice
  • For the Raspberry Sauce:
    • 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
    • 2 tablespoons sugar
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons water
  • For Serving:
    • Vanilla ice cream (or whipped cream, as an alternative)

Instructions:

Step 1: Poach the Peaches

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and prepare an ice bath.
  2. Score a small “X” at the base of each peach. Blanch the peaches in the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to the ice bath to cool.
  3. Peel the skins off the peaches (the blanching makes this easier).
  4. In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of water, sugar, and vanilla. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
  5. Add the peeled peaches and poach over medium-low heat for about 10-15 minutes until soft but not mushy. Remove peaches and let them cool.

Step 2: Make the Raspberry Sauce

  1. Combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until the berries break down and the mixture thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
  2. For a smoother sauce, strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the seeds. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Dessert

  1. Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a serving dish or bowl.
  2. Halve or quarter the poached peaches and arrange them on top of the ice cream.
  3. Drizzle with raspberry sauce.
  4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a few extra raspberries, if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Peach Melba! 🍑🍨

Image by Wikipedia