Persimmons are fruit trees that are native to China, but they’re now grown in many parts of the world. There are two main varieties of persimmons: non-astringent and astringent. The difference between the two types is the amount of tannins in the fruit. The heart-shaped Hachiya persimmons, perhaps the most common variety, are astringent. Before they ripen, they’re loaded with bitter tannins and are not palatable, but once they’re perfectly ripe and their flesh has completely softened they become quite sweet.
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Kir Royal – the ultimate elegant cocktail – evokes thoughts of Paris and grand festivities (at least to me!). And why shouldn’t it? After all, the main ingredient in this sublime cocktail is Champagne and most of us don’t sip Champagne every day. We save it for special occasions. And that’s a good thing; it gives us a chance to really savor this supreme beverage without taking it for granted.
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Locally grown strawberries, whether from your own backyard or a small farm, bear no resemblance to their commercial counterparts. They’re usually small and imbued with a dense crimson color through their core – and they’re tiny bombshells of flavor. No wonder children and adults alike get addicted to the fetching berries.
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There’s something magical about bubbles – they always bring a smile to your face and lift your spirit. They’re enchanting even when mixed in cocktails.
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If you’ve never had a Bloody Mary made with fresh tomatoes, you’re in for a treat. It makes a lighter, more delicate and yet unbelievably flavorful libation.
Here the fresh tomatoes are puréed with four different fresh herbs: basil, oregano, thyme and parsley. The herbs infuse with the fresh juice for 20 minutes before being strained – time enough to impart their ambrosial perfume to the tomato juice.
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