Delicious Recipes with Persimmons: Sweet and Savory Dishes You’ll Love

Persimmons are a unique and flavorful fruit that often gets overshadowed by more common fruits like apples and oranges. However, once you try a persimmon, you’ll see why it deserves a starring role in your kitchen. With a honey-like sweetness and a vibrant orange color, persimmons are perfect for both sweet and savory dishes.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best ways to use persimmons in your cooking, from breakfast to dessert. Plus, we’ve included affiliate links to Amazon where you can find all the ingredients you need to make these recipes.

1. Persimmon Pancakes

Start Your Morning with a Sweet Twist

Persimmons make a wonderful addition to pancakes, providing natural sweetness and a rich flavor. This recipe combines ripe persimmons with fluffy pancakes for a delightful breakfast treat that’s perfect for fall or winter mornings.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe persimmon, peeled and mashed
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
2. In another bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir in the mashed persimmon until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
5. Pour the batter onto the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
6. Serve with maple syrup, chopped nuts, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Buy ripe persimmons here!

2. Persimmon Salad with Arugula and Goat Cheese

A Fresh, Flavorful Salad

This salad combines the sweetness of persimmons with the peppery bite of arugula, tangy goat cheese, and a light vinaigrette. It’s a perfect side dish for a holiday meal or a healthy, refreshing lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe persimmons, sliced thinly
• 4 cups fresh arugula
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Arrange the arugula on a large plate or in a salad bowl.
2. Top with thin slices of persimmons, crumbled goat cheese, and toasted nuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.

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3. Persimmon Bread

Moist, Spicy, and Perfect for Fall

Persimmons make a fantastic addition to quick breads, bringing moisture and a natural sweetness. This persimmon bread recipe is perfect for sharing at a family gathering or as a holiday gift.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup persimmon pulp (from about 2 ripe persimmons)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, mix together persimmon pulp, sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
5. If desired, stir in the chopped nuts.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Get persimmons here!

4. Persimmon Sorbet

A Refreshing, Light Dessert

If you’re looking for a light and refreshing dessert, persimmon sorbet is the perfect option. This frozen treat is easy to make and will impress your guests with its vibrant color and sweet, tangy flavor.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe persimmons, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Place the chopped persimmons, sugar, lemon juice, and water in a blender or food processor.
2. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if needed.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer.
4. Every 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the mixture and break up the ice crystals. Continue scraping until the sorbet is frozen and fluffy.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer.

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5. Persimmon and Pomegranate Salsa

The Perfect Topping for Tacos or Grilled Meats

This colorful salsa is bursting with flavor. The sweetness of persimmons pairs beautifully with the tartness of pomegranates, making it a great topping for tacos, grilled chicken, or fish.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe persimmon, diced
• 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
• 1/4 red onion, finely diced
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the diced persimmons, pomegranate seeds, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
2. Add lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toss gently to combine and serve with tacos or grilled meats.

Get pomegranate seeds here!

Conclusion

Persimmons are a versatile and delicious fruit that can be used in a variety of recipes, from savory salads to sweet desserts. With their natural sweetness and beautiful color, they’re a perfect addition to your fall and winter menus. Try one (or all!) of these recipes next time you get your hands on some ripe persimmons.

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