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1
If the persimmons you have are not orange and at least slightly soft (like a ripe pear) or softer DO NOT proceed with the recipe until they are. If you proceed with greenish skinned, firm ones you will be extremely sad & the persimmon butter may cause your mouth to turn inside out. Don't say you haven't been warned.
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2
Remove stem ends and peel persimmons. Cut each persimmon into sixths.
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3
Bring sugar and 2 cups water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Allow to boil a minute or so, then add the persimmons and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. The persimmons should be mostly covered with water. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook until the persimmons are very soft, about 60 to 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. A fork or knife should effortlessly pierce the persimmon. Add water as needed to keep the persimmons mostly submerged.
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4
Set a strainer over a heat safe bowl. Carefully pour the persimmons and cooking liquid into the strainer. Allow to drain 20 to 30 minutes.
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5
Transfer the persimmons to a food processor with the blade attachment. Pulse until no large pieces remain. Set aside.
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6
Transfer the cooking liquid back to the saucepan. Cook over medium-high until the mixture has reduced to a syrup and has started to caramelize. At first it will need little attention, but as it thickens it will need to be stirred frequently. Once the mixture starts to brown, remove from the heat.
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7
Start the food processor and pour the reduced cooking liquid into the bowl through the feed spout (I used a funnel to help). Process for 15 to 20 seconds, then scrape down the sides and add the remaining lemon juice, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cloves. Puree until very smooth, scraping the sides once or twice. Taste and adjust with additional sugar or spices as desired.
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8
Transfer the persimmon mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium low to medium stirring frequently until the mixture has thickened to your liking, about 10 to 20 minutes. A test dollop on a frozen plate should not seep liquid around the edges. Transfer to jars or other storage containers and keep refrigerated.
