As a frequent browser of the subreddit r/Indiana, I often come across Redditors curious about whether or not Indiana has unique food traditions. It’s difficult to articulate what “Indiana food” is. Dishes most closely associated with the state of Indiana – namely sugar cream pie, pork tenderloins, and to a lesser extent Beef Manhattans – are not unique to the Hoosier state. Surrounding midwestern states maintain similar traditions. Here’s a more productive question: what do Hoosiers themselves associate with being Indiana cuisine? South of Indianapolis, Hoosiers unequivocally associate persimmon pudding with their home state.
An Autumnal Tradition
My own family’s collection of persimmon pudding recipes has led to a personal fascination with the ethnographic significance of the dessert. The families of close friends also have one or two persimmon pudding recipes they reference each Thanksgiving. Just 30 miles south of Bloomington, Mitchell hosts a persimmon festival every autumn, signifying how highly regarded persimmon pudding is.
While I was a little late in harvesting persimmons this year, settling for buying local pulp resulted in an equally delicious persimmon pudding for Thanksgiving. It’s always a treat making it for my grandma, aunt, and mom who’ve made it for many years.
Recipes
I wanted to take an opportunity to highlight the persimmon recipes in the collection. There is a surprising amount of variety. My great-grandma Cohee’s recipe is my personal favorite.
Conclusion
Persimmon pudding is what I associate with home, making it a quintessential Hoosier dish. There is a clear concerted effort by families to make it each year, write down recipes, and to celebrate it.
Wayne's Wonder-Room 