An Ode to Persimmons

When an autumn chill is in the air and swirling leaves are everywhere, what better way to stave off the cold than with fruit that’s winter spiced to hold? They make great candies, cookies, and cakes, and the market has got them by the crate! “What is this mystery fruit?” you may ask, it’s the humble persimmon that’s up to the task.

Persimmons are BACK at the Chico Certified Farmer’s Market! Several farms have them at their tables such as Farmelot, Dhillon Farms, Debbie’s Farm, and Kaki Farms. These incredible winter fruits will only be in season now through January, so get them while you can!

There are two main varieties of persimmon: Fuyu and Hachiya. Fuyus are quat, and pumpkin shaped while Hachiyas have a more elongated shape like an acorn. Fuyu persimmons are edible raw, while Hachiyas are very astringent, and have to be cooked, baked, or candied before they become edible. Both are packed with incredible flavor and nutritional value. To find ones that are ripe for eating, look for persimmons that are firm with a bright orange color.

Never had a persimmon before? Skeptical of its tomatoey visage? I was too, but these have quickly become one of my all-time favorite fruits. They have a crunch similar to an apple, but with a texture that’s more like a stonefruit. Their flavor is unique and all their own, but it has been compared to a variety of things such as cantaloupe, pumpkin, squash, and honey. When they get really ripe, they can occasionally have a bit of a nutmeg flavor to them as well. You eat them like you would an apple, and every part is edible. The meat of the fruit can be eaten raw or used for cooking, the leaves can be dried and used to make tea, and the seeds roasted and ground as a coffee extender.

Persimmons aren’t just delicious, they are also packed with nutrients. One persimmon can contain as much as 55% of the recommended daily value of Vitamin A, 22% of Vitamin C, and 8% of Vitamin E. They are also rich in potassium and manganese, which help with muscle recovery and the prevention of blood clots. They are also packed with antioxidants, which help the body rid itself of harmful free radicals in the body that cause a variety of problems.

There you have it! All signs point to persimmons. Give them a try next time you’re at the market!