Page 159 - United States of Pie
P. 159
PERSIMMONS
Two varieties of persimmons, both originally from Asia, dominate
the American market: the Fuyu and the Hachiya. The tomato-
shaped Fuyu persimmon is delicious when firm, while the larger,
heart-shaped Hachiya must be fully ripe and completely soft
before it is consumed. The American persimmon is no larger than
a plum, and like the Hachiya, it must be completely ripe and soft
before you can eat it. When ripe, persimmons have a flavor
similar to a date, perfumed and honeyed. Underripe Hachiya and
American persimmons are incredibly astringent, leaving an
unpleasant puckering sensation in the mouth.
