The persimmon (Diospyros kaki) originally comes from China and is now grown widely across Asia, making it a popular ingredient in many different persimmon recipe dishes. In Japan, it’s known as Fuyu or kaki and is a significant fruit crop.
Along with its naturally sweet taste, persimmons offer plenty of nutritional benefits and a unique flavour that works beautifully in both fresh dishes and baking.
1. Naturally sweet flavour
Persimmons have a distinct, naturally sweet taste that makes them enjoyable to eat on their own or in a persimmon recipe.
2. Rich in vitamin C
They’re a good source of vitamin C, which supports immune health and overall wellbeing.
3. High in beta carotene
Persimmons contain beta carotene, an antioxidant that contributes to eye health and skin vitality.
4. Good source of fibre
They’re high in fibre, making them a great option for supporting digestion.
5. Naturally fat-free
Persimmons contain no fat, making them a light and healthy addition to your diet.
6. Packed with antioxidant tannins
If eaten before they’re fully ripe, persimmons can taste bitter and leave a slightly fuzzy feeling in your mouth. This is due to their high tannin content (compounds that act as antioxidants and are also found in tea and red wine).
7. Perfect for any persimmon recipe
One of the best things about persimmons is their versatility. You can enjoy them fresh or use them in baking, like this simple and delicious persimmon recipe below.
Persimmon recipe – the persimmon loaf
Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons light olive oil (or macadamia nut oil)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 2 large persimmons, pulp only
- 3/4 cup low fat milk
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/2 cup pecan nuts
- 2 cups plain flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
Method
- Preheat your oven to 190°C and grease a loaf tin.
- In a bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, oil, cinnamon, cardamom and persimmon pulp. Mix until well blended.
- Stir in the low fat milk and mix until smooth.
- Add the chopped dried apricots and pecan nuts.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together, then fold into the mixture until fully combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin.
- Place the loaf tin into a larger baking dish and fill the dish with water (water bath).
- Bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
Did you know there are 2 different types of persimmons? Check out how to tell the difference between them here
Keen to learn more about persimmons? Here’s a simple guide to enjoying persimmon fruit this season.
