The unripe persimmon fruits can be stored for several months. In a cool, dark place, the persimmons continue to ripen, losing the tannins that make them taste tart and gaining in flavor.
How should you store persimmon fruits?
To store persimmons optimally, they should be kept cool, dark and dry, ideally in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator. Depending on the degree of ripeness, they can be stored for a few days to several weeks without drying out or losing their taste.
Kakis, which are climacteric fruits, are usually harvested unripe in the countries of origin. In this state, the solid fruits can be easily stored and transported over long distances. Before they go on sale, they are artificially ripened. This approach allows us to enjoy fresh, vitamin-rich persimmon fruits in the winter months.
Sharon, persimmon and persimmon can be stored differently
In fruit shops the following names are used as synonyms - regardless of origin and botany:
- Kaki,
- Sharon,
- Persimmon or persimmon.
However, these are different breeds that differ in terms of their shelf life. While the large, soft persimmon fruits have a very limited shelf life and are intended for immediate consumption, the smaller Sharon and persimmon fruits can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks.
Kakis are best stored in a cool place
Depending on the ripeness of the fruit you buy, you can store it in the refrigerator for a few days to several weeks. Storage at room temperature is not recommended as the fruit may dry out. In Asia, persimmons are often used dried, but the exotic fruits with their crisp peel and juicy flesh taste particularly delicious when fresh.
The fruits intended for immediate consumption can be stored for some time together with apples, which are known to accelerate ripening due to their high ethylene emissions. If a persimmon fruit still tastes tart and furry, briefly freezing it in the freezer will help to reduce the tannin content. However, the cold effect also changes the consistency of the fruit to the detriment. They become very soft and taste slightly watery.
Tips & Tricks
Persimmons from your own harvest are best left on the tree for as long as possible. When the outside temperature is cool, these continue to ripen long after the tree has shed its leaves.
