Get ready to discover the incredible versatility of wild persimmons! These sweet and tangy fruits are a true gem for any food enthusiast. With their rich, slightly tart flavor and vibrant orange color, it’s no wonder they’ve been prized by chefs and home cooks alike for centuries.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of wild persimmon recipes, showcasing 18 mouthwatering dishes that will inspire your next meal. From sweet treats like Wild Persimmon Pudding with Cinnamon and Wild Persimmon Pie with Pecan Crust, to savory delights like Roasted Wild Persimmon and Goat Cheese Salad and Wild Persimmon and Walnut Muffins, there’s something for everyone.
Wild Persimmon Pudding with Cinnamon
This traditional Southern dessert is a sweet and comforting treat that’s perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening. Our Wild Persimmon Pudding with Cinnamon recipe combines the natural sweetness of persimmons with the warmth of cinnamon, creating a delightful and aromatic dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked wild persimmon pulp
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine persimmon pulp, sugar, cream, eggs, and cinnamon. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Wild Persimmon Bread
This recipe celebrates the sweet and tangy flavors of wild persimmons, perfectly balanced with warm spices to create a deliciously aromatic bread. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, this loaf is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped wild persimmons (canned or fresh)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, sugar, persimmons, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine yogurt, egg, and honey. Stir until smooth.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Persimmon and Walnut Muffins
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of wild persimmons with the earthy flavor of walnuts, creating a unique and delicious muffin. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup pureed wild persimmon (about 2-3 cups fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, pureed persimmon, walnuts, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Wild Persimmon and Goat Cheese Salad
This autumnal salad combines the sweet and tangy flavors of roasted wild persimmons with the creaminess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a bed of fresh greens. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 wild persimmons
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: balsamic glaze or honey for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the persimmons in half, removing any seeds or membranes.
3. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped nuts.
6. Arrange the roasted persimmons on top of the salad.
7. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey, if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Persimmon Chutney with Ginger
This recipe showcases the unique flavor of wild persimmons, paired with the warmth of ginger. Perfect as a condiment or side dish, it’s sure to elevate your meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups wild persimmon puree
– 1 cup chopped fresh ginger
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine persimmon puree, ginger, sugar, vinegar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in honey and salt.
4. Let the chutney cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Wild Persimmon and Honey Glazed Chicken
This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of wild persimmon to create a unique and delicious glaze for chicken. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wild persimmon puree (or substitute with apricot or orange marmalade)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together wild persimmon puree, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
5. If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Persimmon Smoothie with Banana
This smoothie combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the unique flavor of wild persimmons, creating a deliciously refreshing drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup cooked wild persimmons (or 1/2 cup dried persimmon powder)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, cooked or powdered persimmons, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as necessary.
3. Add the Greek yogurt and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker texture.
Cooking Time: None!
Enjoy your Wild Persimmon Smoothie with Banana!
Wild Persimmon Pie with Pecan Crust
This recipe showcases the unique flavor of wild persimmons, a type of fruit often overlooked in favor of domesticated varieties. The addition of a crunchy pecan crust adds depth and texture to this autumnal treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild persimmon pulp
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add persimmon pulp and mix until well combined.
4. Stir in heavy cream and eggs until smooth.
5. Roll out pecans and butter mixture into a flat disk.
6. Place the persimmon filling on top of the pecan crust.
7. Fold the crust over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Wild Persimmon Jam with Orange Zest
This jam recipe combines the natural sweetness of wild persimmons with the brightness of orange zest, creating a unique and flavorful spread perfect for toast, yogurt, or as a glaze for meats or cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups wild persimmon puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon orange zest
– 1 package pectin (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine persimmon puree, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in lemon juice and orange zest.
4. If using pectin, stir it in according to package instructions.
5. Continue to simmer jam for an additional 5-7 minutes or until it reaches desired consistency.
6. Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to a clean glass jar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Persimmon and Apple Crisp
This sweet and tangy dessert combines the natural sweetness of wild persimmons with the crunch of apples, all topped with a crispy oat mixture. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a cozy treat on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups wild persimmons, chopped
- 1 cup Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine chopped persimmons, sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until fruit is evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix rolled oats, chopped walnuts (if using), and melted butter. Spoon over the fruit mixture.
- Bake at 375°F for 40-45 minutes or until topping is golden brown and fruit is tender. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Wild Persimmon Sorbet with Mint
This unique sorbet combines the sweet and tangy flavor of wild persimmons with the cooling essence of fresh mint, creating a refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups wild persimmon puree
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the persimmon puree, sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids.
4. Stir in the fresh mint leaves and lemon juice.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including chilling time)
Wild Persimmon Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these sweet and tangy pancakes infused with the unique flavor of wild persimmon. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of maple syrup with the subtle tartness of wild persimmon for a truly unique breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup pureed wild persimmon (about 2-3 fresh or dried persimmons)
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and pureed wild persimmon.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in melted butter.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Wild Persimmon and Cranberry Sauce
Harness the unique flavors of wild persimmons and tart cranberries to create a sweet and tangy sauce perfect for topping pork, poultry, or yogurt parfaits.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked and mashed wild persimmons
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the mashed persimmons, cranberries, sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the ground cinnamon.
4. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Persimmon Ice Cream with Vanilla
This recipe showcases the unique flavor of wild persimmons, a sweet and tangy fruit that’s perfect for fall. With the addition of creamy vanilla ice cream, this dessert is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups cooked and pureed wild persimmons (see note)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and maple syrup. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature.
4. Stir in pureed persimmons and salt.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Transfer churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (includes cooling time)
Note: To cook wild persimmons, cut them in half and simmer them in water until they’re tender. Then, puree the cooked fruit with a little bit of water to achieve the desired consistency.
Wild Persimmon and Oatmeal Cookies
These sweet and savory cookies combine the natural sweetness of wild persimmons with the comforting warmth of oatmeal. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped wild persimmon (about 2-3 medium-sized fruits)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, brown sugar, and spices.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped persimmon.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Wild Persimmon and Ginger Tea
This unique tea blend combines the sweet flavor of wild persimmons with the spicy warmth of ginger, creating a soothing and invigorating drink perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried wild persimmon pieces
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
– 2 cups water
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the dried persimmon pieces and sliced ginger.
2. Add the water to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the liquid has reduced slightly.
4. Strain the tea into cups using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to catch the solids.
5. Add honey or maple syrup to taste, if desired.
6. Serve hot or let cool to enjoy at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Wild Persimmon Tart with Almond Filling
Savor the sweet-tart flavor of wild persimmons in this unique and delicious tart, paired with a creamy almond filling. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild persimmon puree (or substitute with 1/2 cup cooked and mashed persimmon)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry and place on prepared baking sheet.
3. Spread wild persimmon puree over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Mix sugar and sliced almonds in a small bowl. Sprinkle mixture evenly over the persimmon layer.
5. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling to form a crust. Brush with melted butter and egg wash.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Wild Persimmon and Pumpkin Soup
This sweet and savory soup combines the unique flavor of wild persimmons with the warmth of roasted pumpkin, perfect for a cozy autumn evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups wild persimmon puree
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, cumin, smoked paprika, persimmon puree, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Purée soup with an immersion blender or regular blender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of wild persimmons! This article shares 18 unique recipes that showcase the versatility of this underutilized fruit. From classic desserts like Wild Persimmon Pudding with Cinnamon and Wild Persimmon Pie with Pecan Crust, to savory dishes like Roasted Wild Persimmon and Goat Cheese Salad and Wild Persimmon and Pumpkin Soup, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Even the most adventurous cooks will find inspiration in recipes like Wild Persimmon and Honey Glazed Chicken or Wild Persimmon and Oatmeal Cookies. Whether you’re looking to sweeten up your morning with a Wild Persimmon Smoothie with Banana or spice up your evening with a cup of Wild Persimmon and Ginger Tea, this collection has it all.
