Easy Peach Galette: A French Countryside Classic

Easy Peach Galette: A French Countryside Classic

French Rustic Peach Galette (Galette aux Pêches)

History of the Cuisine

The galette holds a cherished place in French culinary heritage, originating centuries ago in the rural countryside. Derived from the Norman word "gale" meaning "flat cake," these freeform pastries were born from necessity and ingenuity. French peasants created galettes as a practical alternative to elaborate pies, utilizing whatever seasonal fruits nature provided and simple pantry staples.

During the agrarian era, galettes represented the essence of peasant cooking—resourceful, unpretentious, and deeply satisfying. Unlike their more refined cousins who served in noble courts, galettes celebrated the art of rustic baking. They required no special moulds or precise techniques, making them accessible to families regardless of economic status.

This democratic dessert became a symbol of French home cooking, where flavor and comfort took precedence over presentation.

The tradition spread throughout France's regions, with each area developing its own variations based on local produce. In summer, stone fruits like peaches and apricots starred, while autumn brought apple and pear galettes. This seasonal adaptability made galettes a year-round staple, connecting French families to the natural rhythms of their land.

Ingredients and Quantities

For the Crust:

• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 4 ounces (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cubed and chilled

• 4-6 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 2 large yellow peaches (¾ pound total), pitted and sliced ¼-½ inch thick

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon almond paste (optional)

• 1 teaspoon butter

• 1 large egg (for wash)

• Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Preparation Process

Step 1: Create the Pastry Foundation

In a food processor, pulse flour, sugar, and salt until combined. Add chilled butter cubes and pulse 8 times until mixture resembles coarse peas. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until dough just begins to clump together.

Transfer to a clean surface and gently form into a disc without overworking. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) with rack in middle position. Slice peaches and toss with flour, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Whisk egg in a separate small bowl for the wash.

Step 3: Assemble the Galette

Roll chilled dough on a floured surface to 12-inch diameter. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet. If using almond paste, dot the centre 6-inch circle of dough.

Arrange peach slices in overlapping pattern in the centre, forming a 7–8-inch circle. Dot with butter pieces.

Step 4: Shape and Finish

Fold outer dough edges over filling by 2 inches all around in accordion fashion. Brush exposed dough with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake 15-20 minutes until crust is golden brown. Cool on baking sheet over a rack for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Content (Per Serving - Makes 6 servings)

• Calories: 285

• Total Fat: 12g (Saturated: 7g)

• Cholesterol: 65mg

• Sodium: 200mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 42g (Dietary Fiber: 2g, Sugars: 18g)

• Protein: 5g

• Vitamin C: 8% DV

• Potassium: 180mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Pro Variation Tips

Seasonal Swaps: Replace peaches with pears, apples, plums, or mixed berries. Adjust sugar quantities based on fruit sweetness.

Flavor Enhancers: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon cardamom, or a pinch of ginger to the fruit mixture. Lemon zest brightens stone fruit flavors.

Texture Upgrades: Scatter toasted almonds or hazelnuts over fruit before folding dough. Ground cornmeal in the crust adds delightful texture.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare dough up to 2 days ahead. Assemble galette morning of serving and bake fresh.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with gluten-free flour blend, adding 1 teaspoon xanthan gum if not included.

Vegan Adaptation: Replace butter with cold vegan butter substitute and egg wash with plant milk.

Concluding Thoughts

Like the communities I've served worldwide, this galette teaches us that beauty emerges from simplicity and shared abundance. Each imperfect fold tells a story of hands that care, hearts that gather, and the sacred act of nourishing others—reminding us of that love, like good food, is meant to be shared. "That each of them may eat and drink and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God."- Ecclesiastes 3:13 (NIV) This verse reflects the joy of preparing food with our hands, the satisfaction of crafting something simple yet beautiful like a galette, and the gratitude of enjoying it as a gift from God.

Adios Amigo -The Wayfarer

Till we bake next time...

Stay safe 

First time baked a Peach Galette in Kabul 2019.