It is peach season, and I couldn’t be happier. They seem to disappear just as quickly as they arrive in our kitchen! Here’s something truly inspirational for you to try with yours.
A few years ago, a friend of mine got interested in the raw food movement. As advertised, raw foodists prefer their food raw. Uncooked. This woman said it changed her life. O.K., I know, lots of people say stuff like that. But I had to admit that I saw a difference — she seemed more relaxed, energetic. Four kids? No problem!
She had been wanting to introduce me to her new style of cooking, and we were trying to make it happen, but we still had not been able to make it fit our crazy schedules when we both had the good fortune to receive the same invitation to attend a picnic in the woods. Complete with tiny electric lights, an enormous bonfire, spectacular grilled salmon, great company, children of all ages, and a talented guitar player, there was something for everyone. And a raw (of course) peach pie, courtesy of my friend, who was also in attendance. That pie was fantastic. I could not stop thinking about it afterward.
So, the next morning, I called her for the recipe. And here is what she told me to do:
- Measure one cup each of raw almonds and brazil nuts, and place them in a water-filled jar to soak overnight.
- The next day, drain the water and place the nuts in a food processor with 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla, and a scant 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon.
- Process the contents until the consistency of meal, and add 6-8 dates (Medjoul variety, the finest and sweetest) to form a dough.
- Press the dough into a pan to make a crust, and then place it in the freezer to firm up while you finish the remaining steps.
- Cut 6-8 peaches into chunks, and mix them with 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg. I was surprised to learn that the less sweet the peaches, the more important it is to remember to add the lemon juice.
- Finally, slide the peach mixture into the crust, and refrigerate until it’s time for dessert.
That pie was unbelievable. Did I mention how good that pie was? I went back for a second piece before I’d finished the first.