Persimmon Fruit

The Persimmon (Thai: ลูกพลับ ) (Diospyros kaki) originated in China and is popular in many parts of Asia, especially Japan, Korea and Thailand. An aromatic sweet fruit with fibrous texture and shiny orange skin, it should be completely ripened before consumption. This is because it has a high tannin content which makes the immature fruit astringent and bitter and can cause digestive problems.

The ‘kaki’ is rich in glucose and contains vitamins C and B2. Eaten raw, it can help relieve constipation, while the cooked fruit is used to treat diarrhea.


Persimmons can be consumed raw , cooked or dried, blended to smoothies, or used in a variety of desserts like cookies, cakes and puddings. The fruit is usually peeled and the seeds taken out before consumption.

Try the following recipe for a healthy and refreshing persimmon smoothie:

150g persimmon, peeled and seeded
100g pineapple
3-4 tbsp. sugar
2-3 tbsp. lime juice
Salt
1 cup of water
1-2 cups finely crushed ice

- Combine all ingredients and blend until smooth. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.