Daebong-gam (대봉감) is a type of persimmon distinguished from other varieties by its considerably large size and pointed tip. You can easily find Daebong-gam in supermarkets during winter, usually sold for about 6,000 KRW for four. (Please note that the price may vary depending on the supply that year.)
Daebong-gam is originally a strongly astringent persimmon. Therefore, Koreans only eat this fruit after it has fully ripened (post-ripening). As it ripens naturally, the astringent taste disappears, and the texture transforms from hard to soft. It becomes a fruit with very high sugar content once the bitterness is gone.
Because Daebong-gam becomes very soft like jelly, it is usually packaged individually to prevent damage during transport. To eat it, gently peel off the skin with your hands (it peels very easily) and scoop out the inside with a spoon.
It is truly the best fruit for dessert because it is incredibly sweet. It melts in your mouth and is so delicious that you will want to keep eating it, but I recommend limiting yourself to about one per day. Eating too much can cause constipation due to the tannins.
Rich in nutrients, it is also good for preventing colds and recovering from fatigue during the winter.
If you are traveling to Korea in the winter, Daebong-gam is a fruit you must try at least once. I highly recommend it, especially if you come from a region outside of Asia where persimmons are not commonly consumed. Please visit a mart near your accommodation, buy some, and try them in your room.
Important Notes on Daebong-gam
- Since it is already fully ripe, do not keep it in an airtight container.
- If the skin is damaged, you should eat it immediately.
- It is recommended to keep it indoors at room temperature and eat it within 2–3 days.
- If you don’t think you can eat it within 2–3 days, you can put it in the freezer and eat it like ice cream (sorbet) later.
- The sugar content is quite high, so people with diabetes should be careful about the portion size.
- Eating too much can cause constipation.
- Eating it on an empty stomach may cause indigestion.
