They might look like the poisonous fruit from the Super Mario Bros. games, but don’t let the strange appearance deter you from trying Fuyu persimmons.
Fuyus, characterized by their burned auburn flesh and crisp, firm texture, are more commonly known as the “”Asian apple,”” and have a taste like that of a Fuji apple crossed with a Bosc pear.
When shopping for persimmons, be careful not to confuse Fuyus for their close relative, the Hatchiya, whose acidic juices will render your lips numb for hours.
Fuyus’ prime growing season is late fall, so now is the perfect time to experiment with persimmons in holiday desserts. They can serve as substitutes for apples in any recipe: pies, tarts and puddings. Persimmons can be eaten raw or cooked, and are excellent additions to salads or smoothies.
Or, be adventurous and try sliced Fuyus with spritzed with lime and sprinkled with chili powder.
