Are Peaches Vegetables?
The confusion has been rampant – are peaches vegetables? Surprisingly, not many people have a confirmed answer to this conundrum.
Are Fruits Not Vegetables?
Yes, fruits are technically not vegetables, but the answer to the peaches question isn’t that easy. The true answer to whether peaches are vegetables or fruit is that they are both! While peaches are considered a type of fruit, some cultures classify them as a vegetable due to its usage.
An Overview of the Types of Fruits and Vegetables
Fruit is typically divided into two categories; it is either a drupe or a pome. A drupe is a type of fruit that has a fleshy exterior and a hard seed or stone in the center. Examples of drupes include peaches, olives, coconuts, and even cherries. Pomes are fruits with a core that is made of valves, such as apples, cranberries, and pears.
As for vegetables, they are typically divided into four; root, legume, fruiting, and leafy vegetables. Root vegetables include beets, carrots, parsnips, onions, garlic, potatoes, and more. Legumes, commonly known as “pulses”, are peas, beans, lentils, etc. Fruiting vegetables such as peppers fall into this category, as well as, squash, cucumbers, tomatoes, and corn. Finally, leafy vegetables include cabbage, broccoli, lettuce, and spinach.
Are Peaches Both Fruits and Vegetables?
Yes, both categories apply to peaches because they have a fleshy exterior and a hard pit in the center. As they are usually eaten as a fruit, so this is how they are usually categorized. However, this does not mean that they cannot be used in savory dishes. Peaches can be grilled, roasted, and even used to top salads. Therefore, due to their versatility, some cultures classify them as a vegetable.
Conclusion
In short, peaches are both a fruit and vegetable depending on how and where they are being used. They have a fruity taste, but their savory usage cannot be denied. So while the confusion about whether peaches are a fruit or vegetable may never be solved, it is clear that they have both qualities.
