Lavender-Poached Ontario Peaches
Contributed by: News Canada
(NC) - Ontario's peach season runs from late July to September, delivering fresh tree-ripened fruit with a sweet fragrance and flavor that can only come from locally grown produce.
Juicy and delicious, Ontario peaches can be enjoyed on their own or incorporated into a variety of palate pleasing recipes.
Simple and elegant describes this delicate dessert; the perfect summer dinner party finale. The Mascarpone whipped cream is a truly decadent topper. As an alternative, replace the lavender with a vanilla bean [split lengthwise].
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water 250 mL
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar 125 mL
- 1/2 tsp dried lavender petals 2 mL
- 4 Ontario Peaches, 4 peeled and halved
- 1/2 cup 35% whipping cream 125 mL
- 1 tbsp icing sugar 15 mL
- 1/2 cup Mascarpone cheese 125 mL
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 2 mL
Directions:
In large pot over medium-high heat, bring water and sugar to a boil, stirring occasionally; boil 5 minutes (do not stir). Add lavender; remove from heat and let sit 1 hour.
Add peaches to lavender syrup. Over medium-high heat, poach 8 minutes or until fruit is soft. Remove peaches with slotted spoon; continue cooking syrup 15 minutes or until reduced to 1/4 cup (50 mL).
In medium bowl, beat cream and icing sugar until soft peaks form; fold in cheese and nutmeg.
Arrange 2 peach halves each on 4 plates; top with Mascarpone cream and drizzle with lavender syrup.
Serving Size: Makes 4 Servings
