Organic Fuyu persimmons display showing multiple round, tomato-shaped ripe orange fruits

The Ultimate Guide to Persimmons: Types, Taste, and How to Enjoy Them

 

The Critical Difference Between Persimmon Types

The distinction between the two main types of persimmons is important to enjoy these fruits properly.

The key difference is in their astringency levels, which dramatically affects when and how you can eat them.

 

For the Fuyu Persimmons: The Easy-Going Choice 

 

  • Non-astringent variety - can be eaten while firm
  • Shaped like a tomato
  • Sweet and crisp from the start, similar to a cross between a pear and a date
  • Perfect for eating raw or in salads
  • No unpleasant taste even when firm
  • Versatile for both cooking and fresh eating


Hachiya Persimmons: The Patient Person's Reward

 

  • Highly astringent when firm - must be fully ripe before eating
  • Larger and acorn-shaped
  • Incredibly sweet when properly ripened
  • Must be completely soft, almost jelly-like before consuming
  • Eating before fully ripe will cause an extremely unpleasant, dry, chalky sensation
  • Best for baking or making puddings once ripened

How to Choose the Perfect Persimmon

When shopping for persimmons, keep these tips in mind:

  • For Fuyu persimmons, select fruits that are firm but yield slightly to pressure, like a ripe pear
  • For Hachiya persimmons, wait until they're very soft - they should feel like they're filled with jelly
  • The colour should be deep orange to dark red-orange
  • Avoid fruits with blemishes, cuts or bruises
  • The calyx (leafy crown) should be fresh and green

Ripening and Storage Tips

Store unripe persimmons at room temperature until they reach desired ripeness. To speed up ripening, place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple. Once ripe, persimmons can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Delicious Ways to Enjoy Persimmons

Raw Preparations:

    • Slice firm Fuyu persimmons into wedges for snacking
    • Add to fresh salads for sweet contrast
    • Pair with cheese and nuts for an elegant appetiser
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    • Cooked Applications:
      • Bake into puddings and cakes
      • Use in jams and preserves
      • Add to morning porridge
      • Include in smoothies for natural sweetness

Health Benefits

Persimmons aren't just delicious; they're also packed with nutrients:

  • High in fibre and antioxidants
  • Excellent source of vitamins A and C
  • Contains beneficial compounds for eye health
  • Provides good amounts of manganese and potassium

Persimmons in Our Exotic Fruit Baskets

Looking for the perfect way to try persimmons along with other exotic fruits?

Our curated fruit baskets feature seasonal persimmons (both Fuyu and Hachiya varieties when available) alongside a carefully selected assortment of exotic fruits. These gorgeous gift baskets offer a perfect introduction to the world of exotic fruits and make exceptional presents for food lovers, special occasions, or corporate gifts.

Our Exotic Fruit Basket options including persimmons (seasonal):

  • Premium Exotic Selection: Our most luxurious assortment with seasonal persimmons
  • Exotic Fruit Tasting Box: Perfect for first-time exotic fruit explorers

Seasonal Availability

While persimmons are typically in season from October through February, you can find these exotic fruits in many speciality fruit markets year-round. 

Ready to experience the unique taste of persimmons and other exotic fruits?

 Visit our store to explore our selection of carefully sourced Fuyu and Hachiya persimmons, as well as our signature fruit baskets that will expand your taste buds.

From The Epicerie with love

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