Ripen peaches quickly by placing them in a plastic bag to trap the ethylene gas they naturally produce.
Why Ripen Peaches in a Bag?
Peaches, like many fruits, release a natural plant hormone called ethylene gas. This gas is crucial in triggering the ripening process. By enclosing peaches in a plastic bag, you create a concentrated environment where the ethylene gas is trapped.
As highlighted in the reference, "Enclosing peaches in a bag traps the gas and speeds the ripening." This increased concentration of ethylene around the fruit accelerates the transformation from hard, sometimes tart peaches to soft, sweet, and juicy ones.
How to Ripen Peaches Using a Bag
The process is simple and requires minimal effort.
Here are the steps:
- Select Your Peaches: Choose peaches that are still firm and not yet ripe enough to eat.
- Gather Supplies: You'll need a clean plastic bag (like a grocery or storage bag).
- Place Peaches in Bag: Gently place the unripe peaches inside the plastic bag. Avoid overcrowding the bag; it's better to use multiple bags if you have many peaches.
- Seal Loosely: Seal the bag shut, but don't make it airtight. A little airflow is generally fine, but the goal is to keep most of the ethylene contained.
- Boost Ethylene (Optional): To potentially speed up the process even more, add another fruit known for producing high levels of ethylene, such as a banana or an apple, into the bag with the peaches. As the reference notes, "Some like to put a banana or apple in the bag to boost the ethylene level."
- Monitor Progress: Store the bag at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Check the peaches daily by gently squeezing them.
When Are Peaches Ripe?
Peaches are ripe when they yield slightly to gentle pressure and have a sweet aroma. The skin color often changes from greenish or pale yellow to a richer yellow or orange, with a pronounced red blush.
Once your peaches reach your desired ripeness, remove them from the bag and either eat them or store them in the refrigerator to slow down further ripening.
Using a plastic bag is an effective and simple technique to accelerate the ripening of peaches, ensuring you can enjoy them at their peak flavor and texture sooner.
