It’s Try It Tuesday – the perfect time to shake up your routine and explore something new on your plate! Each month, we highlight a fun, nutritious ingredient that might not be on your regular grocery list but deserves a spot. Whether you’re looking to add variety, boost nutrients, or just try something delicious, we’ve got you covered. This week, we’re spotlighting persimmons – a sweet, seasonal fruit you might not have tasted yet!
Benefits:
Persimmons are packed with vitamin A for eye health, fiber to support digestion, and antioxidants that help fight inflammation. They’re naturally sweet, making them a healthy alternative to sugary treats. Persimmons also provide vitamin C to boost immunity, manganese for bone health, and potassium to help regulate blood pressure. Their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds may even support heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
How to eat:
- Fuyu Persimmon (short and round): Eat these like an apple—no need to peel, just slice and enjoy! The deeper the color, the sweeter it tastes!
- Hachiya Persimmon (long and large): Wait until it’s very soft and jelly-like, then scoop out the sweet flesh with a spoon. These persimmons can become a custard-like texture.
Storing:
- Store unripe persimmons at room temperature until they soften and become slightly tender.
- Once ripe, refrigerate persimmons to slow ripening and keep them fresh for up to a week.
- For longer storage, peel and slice persimmons, then freeze them for use in smoothies or desserts later.
TRY IT with these pairings:
Savory Pairings
- Cheese – goat cheese, blue cheese, burrata, or feta
- Nuts – walnuts, pecans, almonds
- Greens – arugula, spinach, kale
- Meats – prosciutto, turkey
- Grains – farro, quinoa, couscous
- Vinegars – balsamic, apple cider vinegar
- Herbs – mint, thyme, rosemary
Sweet Pairings
- Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
- Honey or maple syrup
- Cinnamon or nutmeg
- Dark chocolate
- Other fruits – apples, pears, pomegranate seeds, oranges, dates
Use persimmons in salads, yogurt bowls, smoothies, or even baked into muffins or bread!