“If it be not ripe, it will draw a man’s mouth awry, with much torment, but when it is ripe, it is as delicious as an apricot.” ― Captain John Smith (who’s life was twice saved by Pocahontas) on persimmons

From the inspiring cookbook Vegan Desserts, by Hannah Kaminsky, page 151. This “best-blondie-everrrr” recipe uses hachiya persimmons, five-spice powder, chocolate chips, and walnuts. We ate these every day for both breakfast AND dessert until they were gone because they were so yummy. I only wish persimmons were in season year-round so we could make these more often.

Captain Smith’s quote above is true, too! Hachiya persimmons should be eaten when they are very soft. If you’ve ever taken a bite out of a crunchy one you will know what starchiness and bitterness are all about, but if you let them ripen in a paper bag until they are nice and mushy you will taste pure heaven.