Persimmons are delicious, sweet fruit that can be enjoyed in many ways. Oftentimes, however, persimmons can be too firm to enjoy and need to be softened first. Luckily, there are several easy methods for softening this versatile fruit so that you can enjoy it anytime! Read on to learn six ways to quickly and easily soften persimmons.
1) Soften Persimmons by Refrigerating It
One of the easiest ways to soften persimmons is also one of the quickest. Place the whole, unpeeled fruit in a plastic bag and store it in your refrigerator for a few days until it has softened enough for you to enjoy. For best results, keep the temperature just above freezing (around 35°F).
2) Bake to Soften Persimmons
Baking is an excellent choice if you’d like your persimmon softened more quickly than the refrigeration method allows. Preheat your oven to 350°F and place your unpeeled persimmon onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes or until the skin has turned dark brown and wrinkled. Remove from oven, let cool, peel off the skin and enjoy!
3) Put Persimmons into Hot Water
Another quick way to soften your persimmon is by putting it into hot water for about 10 minutes before peeling & eating it. Make sure not to use boiling water, as this will cause the flesh of the fruit to become mushy instead of tender. The optimal temperature should be around 180°F – 200°F.
4) Microwave to Soften Persimmons
Microwaving is another excellent option if you want your persimmon softened fast! Place a persimmon on a plate with two tablespoons of water and microwave on high heat for two minutes or until soft. Let cool before removing the skin and enjoying! The moisture from the water helps prevent burning while microwaving, so make sure not to skip this step!
5) Soften Persimmons by Boiling
Boiling is a highly effective way of softening tough fruits like persimmons but requires extra time compared to other methods mentioned here. To begin, fill a large pot with enough water so that the top of the water level is slightly higher than that of the fruit itself when placed inside. Bring this water to a boil, then reduce the heat, so it’s still simmering gently before placing it in your unpeeled fruit(s). Let simmer for 20 minutes before removing from heat & allowing them to cool before peeling & enjoying!
6) Steaming to Soften Persimmons
Steaming is another great way for those who don’t have access or don’t want to use/have access/use an oven/microwave/stovetop etc. This method requires minimal effort as all you need to do is place prepared (washed & unpeeled) persimmons onto a steamer basket over boiling water, then cover with a lid & steam for 5-7 minutes (depending on how ripe/soft you would like them). Remove from heat once done & enjoy!
Conclusion on How to Soften Persimmons
With these six easy methods on how to soften persimmons at home now available. There’s no excuse not to try out each one. You can even experiment with combination methods and see which works best for you! Whether you prefer softer or harder varieties or simply want something quick & easy without having access/use an oven/microwave etc., rest assured these simple techniques will help you get what you desire every time! So enjoy your delicious fruits today!
