The Fall Food Essential: Plenty of Persimmons

For the past three years, I have heard my friend rave about her mom’s famous persimmon pudding.  I, on the other hand, had never even heard of the fruit until I came to Indiana.

Apparently, I was seriously missing out. After trying this delectable dish and talking to the passionate women of Persimmon Pleasures, I have realized what a staple persimmons are in the fall season here in Indiana.

Stephanie Waltz of Persimmon Pleasures describes a persimmon as a small fruit that is very sweet when ripe.  Grown mostly in the region of Indiana, persimmon trees have been around for thousands of years.

Though many people often have bad childhood memories of trying a bitter persimmon, Stephanie recommends giving persimmons a chance.

With experience in the nut, seed and persimmon business, Persimmon Pleasures is a family owned company that has been around the block.

“We have a personal touch with traditional Indiana food,” Charlotte Waltz said.

Persimmon Pleasures sells pulp, cookbooks and cookies.  Not only do they make sure they sell products they are proud of, but they also do it with a focus on the customer.

“Our clients are unique.  They are people we can converse with,” Charlotte said.

With the people in mind, Persimmon Pleasures puts large importance on the community of Indiana. Located in Bedford, Persimmon Pleasures is a member of Indiana Aritisan and takes pride in the fact that the company supports other Hoosiers.

“I really believe in promoting local products,” Charlotte said.

They also take pride in making products that their consumers enjoy.  With a wide range of consumers, they have something for every buyer. For cooks, they recommend their persimmon pulp to test your own famous pudding recipe.  Persimmon Pleasures even provides their own recipe on their website for those who need a jump start in the kitchen.

For those who are unsure of their persimmon talents and are in need of a bit of instant satisfaction, I would recommend the Persimmon Chocolate Chip Cookie.  Big enough to feed two people, this sweet dessert is sure to please.  Both are available on their website for purchase.

Though persimmons are often unknown to many, the women at Persimmon Pleasures have talked to many consumers who have had great memories with the fruit.

“I would encourage people who have never tried it to try it,” Charlotte said.

So for those of you who have never had a persimmon, now is your chance to throw out prior conceived notions and try this amazing fruit.  From Sunday, September 18 through Sunday, September 25, you can experience persimmons in full force at the 65^th Annual Persimmon Festival in Mitchell, IN.

This popular festival is sure to please any taste bud.  While there, make sure to stop by and see Persimmon Pleasures under the commercial tent.  I know they would love a chance to impress you with their great and local products.

Charlotte and Kent Waltz and Seeds and Such are juried members of Indiana Artisan – the official organization to review, recognize and promote the work of Indiana’s highest-quality art and food artisans. Find out more about Tom by visiting their bio page on IndianaArtisan.org.