How to choose, store, and open pomegranates, plus recipe ideas.
Oh, how I loved them then and still do!
Just because a pomegranate is red doesn’t mean that the fruit inside is ripe.
Elise Bauer
So don’t buy the first pomegranates you see showing up in the market.
Wait a few weeks.
Then look for pomegranates that have deep red skin.
Elise Bauer
The deeper the color of the red on the outside, the more ripe the fruit will be.
Hold the pomegranate in your hand.
If it feels heavy, that’s good!
Elise Bauer
That means the arils inside are full of juice.
Don’t worry if the skin is a little rough on the outside.
In fact, if the skin is breaking, that’s a good sign that the fruit is ripe.
We don’t pick our pomegranates until they begin to burst at the seams.
This usually happens a few days after a rain.
Why do pomegranates split?
The fruit absorbs the moisture and the skin cannot contain them anymore.
Place your thumbs in the hole left by the crown and pull the pomegranate apart.
Tear away the connecting membranes and remove the arils with your fingers over a large bowl.
you’ve got the option to do this over a bowl half filled with water if you want.
The arils will sink to the bottom and the membrane will float on the top.
Skim off the membrane and strain the arils of water.
Add sugar to taste if the juice is too tart.
How To Store Pomegranates
Pomegranates will last several months whole in the refrigerator.
Mold has a way of setting in once the fruit has opened, even just a little.
To freeze pomegranate seeds, spread the arils out in a single layer then place in a freezer.
Once frozen, consolidate them into a freezer bag or an airtight container.
They’ll last for up to 6 months frozen.
What To Cook With Pomegranates?
Pomegranate arils are wonderful on salads and garnishes for main dishes.
