Persimmons: The lost fruit

I am no Spring chicken but can safely say that in my entire lifespan, I have neither known anyone or heard anyone say, in passing, that they have ever tasted or consumed a persimmon! After reading about them, I’m looking forward to tasting one.

We have never heard of a persimmon pie OR persimmon jam—like—what is the deal? It seems there are two types of the fruit; one version called “Fuyu” and the second referred to as “Hachiya.” They are a great source of fiber and loaded with antioxidants while fully supporting overall heath. They are enriched with vitamins A and C and packed with other nutrients such as folate, manganese and potassium. They also contain plant compounds such as tannins, flavanols, along with the B vitamins and fiber. They also combat inflammation, help our vision, digestion and heart health.

If you eat a Fuyu persimmon before it is fully ripe, the tannic acid will make you pucker and dry out your mouth. They also combat inflammation and the Hachiya version (also labeled the “astringent” persimmon…) needs to be eaten when it is completely ripe or even nearly rotten to avoid the bitterness. You know they are edible once they become extremely soft to the touch and a very deep orange in color.

The Fuyu, also known as the Japanese Persimmon, looks like a squat (dwarf) tomato and is much smaller than the Hachiya variety. This variety doesn’t have to be quite as ripe before eating.

In just one persimmon you will find 118 calories, 1 gram of protein, 0 fat grams, 31 grams of complex carbohydrates, 6 grams of fiber and 21 grams of sugar.

As far as the taste goes, my research tells me that they taste like a combination of honey and custard with a little melon thrown in. I could go for that! You can slice or mush them up and use them in place of bananas or pumpkins when making the loaf breads. You can also blend them into a drink like a smoothie or make persimmon ice cream. They could also be added to salads just as you do with raisins or grapes.

For Christmas, utilize them in a pie or strudel. They must be truly delicious and one of our most neglected fruits; live a little and get creative with a “first time” dessert!