A few weeks ago I started a series I’d like to continue on what to do with fruits or vegetables you might find intimidating. Today we’ll be tackling the beautiful and mysterious pomegranate!
Pomegranates have been somewhat trendy lately due to research that shows them to be high in nutrients and antioxidants, as well as improvements in global food distribution.
The seeds within can be eaten alone or used in salads, sauces, and desserts. My favorite way to eat them is in a bowl of plain Greek yogurt with agave and granola. My daughter calls them “grandma seeds” and thinks they’re pretty and fun to eat.
Are you excited to dive into this beautiful fruit yet?
Your adventure starts where all fruit adventures start, in the grocery store. Let’s pick the perfect pomegranate!
You’ll want to choose a fruit with vibrantly colored, leathery skin that is free of dull spots or blemishes. It should feel heavy for its size and the bigger the fruit the more precious seeds you’ll find within.
I recommend using a red cutting board and wearing an apron when working with a pomegranate, as the juice will stain.
Start by scoring the top of the fruit. Cut an X about ½ inch deep.
Pry the fruit open and place the quarters in a bowl of cold water.
Using your fingers, separate the arils (the colorful seed casings) from the peel and white pulp. The edible arils will sink to the bottom and you can discard what floats to the top.
That’s it! You’re ready to pull your jewel-like seeds from the water and eat to your heart’s content. I really hope you’ll give pomegranates a try, they make an attractive addition to the holiday table.
What other fruits or vegetables have you been curious about?
Sally Weber says
Thank you so much for the lesson on Pomegranates. I have tasted them before and really liked the flavor but had no clues how to pick one out or deal with it once I had it in my kitchen. Your help is most appreciated and I really enjoy your blog site!