What is how to eat persimmons?

Eating Persimmons: A Guide

Persimmons are delicious fruits, but they require a bit of knowledge to enjoy properly due to their varying astringency. There are two main types: astringent persimmons and non-astringent persimmons.

Astringent Persimmons (e.g., Hachiya):

• When to Eat: These must be completely ripe before eating. They are only ready when they are extremely soft, almost jelly-like. If eaten before fully ripe, they will leave a horribly puckering sensation in your mouth.
• How to Tell if Ripe: Look for very soft flesh, almost translucent skin, and a deep orange color. Some varieties might even have a slight wrinkling of the skin.
• How to Eat:
  • Spoon out the flesh and discard the skin.
  • They're delicious in smoothies, baked goods, or eaten plain.
  • You can also dry them for a sweet, chewy snack.
• Ripening: If you bought unripe Hachiya persimmons, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag with a banana or apple. The ethylene gas these fruits release will help ripen the persimmons. Freezing and thawing can also remove the astringency.

Non-Astringent Persimmons (e.g., Fuyu):

• When to Eat: These can be eaten while still firm, like an apple. They lose their astringency as they ripen but are still enjoyable when slightly firm.
• How to Tell if Ripe: Look for a deep orange color and slightly softened flesh, though they should still be firm to the touch.
• How to Eat:
  • Wash the fruit and eat it whole, skin and all, like an apple. You can also peel it if preferred.
  • Slice it and add it to salads or use it in cooking.
• Storage: Fuyu persimmons can be stored at room temperature until ripe and then refrigerated.

General Tips:

• Identifying Persimmon Types can be tricky at first. Look for variety names or ask your grocer.
• Removing Seeds: Some persimmons have seeds; others are seedless. If present, remove them before eating.
• Enjoy! Persimmons are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways.