Persimmons

Hachiya persimmons must be very soft to be eaten. Fuyu persimmons can be eaten firm or soft. Store unripe persimmons at room temperature to ripen; once ripe, they can be stored in the refrigerator.

For astringent varieties like Hachiya, ensure they are completely soft and jelly-like before eating, or they will be unpleasantly bitter.

Fuyu persimmons are non-astringent and can be eaten like an apple, either firm or softened.

Use ripe, soft persimmons in smoothies, baked goods, or purees.

Slice firm Fuyu persimmons and add them to salads or cheese boards.

Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cardamom

Dairy: Yogurt, cream cheese, mascarpone

Nuts: Walnuts, pecans

Other: Honey, maple syrup, dark chocolate, apples, pears

Eating astringent persimmons (like Hachiya) before they are fully soft and ripe, which results in a very bitter and unpleasant taste.

Refrigerating unripe persimmons, which can prevent them from ripening properly.