Chef Lucy’s Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

1. Chef Lucy’s Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Persimmons

2. History of Persimmons • The persimmon is a fruit of Chinese origin. It was cultivated in China and Japan for centuries • Since the mid 1800s, persimmons have been grown in Mediterranean countries, the Middle East, and the USA

3. Persimmons • The color of ripe persimmons range from light yellow-orange to red-orange • Similar to a tomato, persimmons are considered to be whole fruit but are, in fact, berries!

4. Persimmons • Persimmon trees are multi-trunked and can grow to be 25 feet in height • Persimmons are eaten fresh, raw, or cooked. When eaten fresh they are usually eaten whole like an apple or cut into quarters

5. Nutrition of Persimmons • Persimmons have many healing properties: • Vitamin C– helps the body resist infection and boosts the immune system • Anti-Oxidant Compounds – play a role in promoting good health and disease prevention as we age • Copper – required for the production of red blood cells • Fiber – aids in digestion

6. Chef Lucy’s Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Persimmons