Persimmon is a delicious golden yellow / orange-red skinned fruit that is full of sweet flavor and packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Originating from China and Japan, they were brought to the US in the 1880s and are available in most cases in 2 types: Hachiya and Fuyu.

Hachiya: it constitutes approximately 90% of the fruits of the persimmon and is shaped like an acorn. It is best to eat them when they are soft and ripe.

Fuyu: Most popular in Japan, they are slightly smaller and sweeter than their counterparts, and can be eaten either hard or ripe. They look like squashed tomatoes.

Persimmon trees are easy to grow, but a bit hard to come by. American persimmon trees can easily grow in our area and are frost resistant. This tree can be difficult to sprout, and the best way to ensure optimal growth is to purchase saplings from a nursery. They are versatile for a wide variety of soils and tolerant to water, pests and diseases. It is best to plant them in winter or early spring.

Persimmons are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, B complex, C, and fiber. Low in fat, these colorful yellow and orange fruits contain catechins and betulinic acid, which have been found to reduce inflammation and tumor growth. They also contain zea-xanthine, a carotenoid that supports eye health and can prevent macular degeneration. They also contain traces of vitamin K and copper, which help the growth of red blood cells.

They are more widely available from September to December in the US and can be stored in the refrigerator once ripe. They can be eaten whole or quartered. They are quite versatile with a variety of recipes and can be added to or used in salads, cakes, muffins, cookies, breads, cereals, smoothies, jams, waffles, pancakes, puddings, and sorbets.

Some of my favorite recipes include Fuyu persimmons cubes with grapes, pomegranate seeds, diced apples, and sliced ​​kiwis, and they are added to a kale salad. Another one of my favorites is a banana and cinnamon, persimmon smoothie. Mix in eight ounces of almond or coconut milk, add a persimmon, banana, a teaspoon of honey, half a teaspoon of cinnamon, and a little kiwi if desired. Mix and pour into a tall glass in the morning. This is a great way to start your day!

Try something new and add persimmon fruits to your taste buds! You may find that they are quite tasty!