Tuesday, December 24, 2013
With its covertly packaged ruby red seeds that yield a surprising crunch, a burst of sweet-tart juice dancing on your tongue, Punica granatum is a fruit unlike any other. It’s been cultivated since ancient times, a favorite in both Greece and Egypt, and is used in many different cuisines. It also has spiritual symbolism in numerous religions thus finds a special place on holiday tables around the world.Despite this unique prominence and impressive reputation, many haven’t the slightest clue how to approach a pomegranate. Like other plant foods less familar to American audiences, most eye it dubiously, perhaps remembering a previous unfortunate encounter,and opt instead for the pre-packaged seeds. In today’s blog post, I show you how to take charge of your pomegranate with two simple methods to easily extract the luscious seeds inside. In about nine minutes, you’ll learn how to successfully wrangle a pomegranate for your next meal. (Or party trick).
Not sure how to feature the gorgeous pomegranate seeds you worked so hard to extricate? I mainly use them in salads, like this spinach salad with pomegranate, pepitas, and pomegranate vinaigrette or a kale salad with pomegranate, walnuts, and pears. I’ve been meaning to make vegetarian ash-e anar, a pomegranate seed flecked Persian soup made with the juice. I often just eat them out of a bowl, as in this video, for a snack or dessert. Last, but certainly not least, they make a great garnish in cocktails like a pomegranate champagne sparkler, The Diva, or even a pomegranate margarita. (All of these cocktails use pomegranate liqueur and/or pomegranate juice.)
However you enjoy this beautiful red fruit, congratulations on mastering the pomegranate.
Thanks for watching!
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This public service announcement was brought to you by Dr. P.K. Newby, whose sole mission is to encourage readers to live deliciously through plant-based diets that promote health and protect the planet. She receives no remuneration from the pomegranate people but checks are welcomed.
Ok but the juice gets everywhere and stains everything!!!
Not if you wipe it up right away, in my experience. Though there’s a little splattering, it’s true. 🙂 Less so if you use your fingers rather than spank it with a spoon. Worth it, though, in my humble opinion! I adore pomegranate!