The Health Benefits of Eating Tasty Persimmon Fruits

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

Hachiya: Makes up about 90% of persimmon fruits and is shaped like an acorn. They are best eaten when they become soft and ripe.

Fuyu – Most popular in Japan, they are a bit smaller and sweeter than their counterparts and can be eaten in their hard or ripe state. They look like smashed tomatoes.

Persimmon trees are easy to grow, but a bit difficult to come by. Persimmon trees can easily grow in our area and are frost hardy. 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 are tolerant of 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-xanthin, a carotenoid that supports eye health and may prevent macular degeneration. They also contain traces of vitamin K and copper, which help the growth of red blood cells.

They are most available from September through December in the US and can be stored in the refrigerator once they mature. They can be eaten whole or cut into quarters. 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 sherbet.

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

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