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What fruit looks like a cross between an orange and a tomato? Why Indiana's favorite fall fruit, the persimmon, of course!
Persimmons
Persimmons appear to be a squat orange-colored tomato, so its sweet, almost apricot taste may be a surprise to those taking their first bite of this fall fruit. Just make sure it's ripe before you take that bite!
When immature, native persimmons are very astringent (there are two kinds, those that are sour when young and those that are non-astringent; persimmons native to the United States are generally the former). You can tell if a persimmon is ripe by its color and by touch. Always look for an all-over orange color and a fruit that is soft to the touch with no breaks in the skin (a little bruising is fine). A persimmon that is described as such will give you a sweet apricot taste, though some will liken it to a plum or even a pumpkin.
Persimmons are grown from a tree in the ebony family. It is a slow-growing deciduous that can grow as high as 25 feet and just as big around. Many plant the persimmon tree as an ornamental as well as for its frui as it is a quite handsome tree with its long languid branches and droopy, glossy leaves.
Persimmons, specifically the species Diospyros virginania, are found througout the more southeastern United States including southern Ohio, Indiana and central Illinois. Varieties native to China, Japan and Korea are also grown in the some states, but should not be mistaken for our delicious native fruit.
A Hoosier Favorite
Persimmons have had their place in country's culinary traditions for centuries. Favorite recipes vary by state, and all are delicious. Some prefer jams and jellies to top biscuits and toast while others use it to flavor their sweet and sour dishes. Cookies, cakes and breads are also popular, but in Indiana, it seems the only way to use this sweet fruit is to make a pudding.
Persimmon pudding is a tasty dessert that can be found served in many Hoosier kitchens when the fruit is in season. Though called a pudding, it isn't exactly what you would think a pudding would be like as it is baked. Its consistency is more similar to a pumpkin pie and resembles a rich chocolate brownie. This wonderful, seasonal treat is often topped with a mound of fresh whipped cream and eaten with a smile.
Whether eaten fresh, cooked or baked, the persimmon is a Hoosier favorite that is much anticipated throughout the year. Widely available from September to December, visit your local market and pick up a few today!
Nature picture credits (top to bottom, left to right): Photo © WIkipedia (persimmon on branch); Photo © Wikipedia (persimmon).
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