The Easy Way To Open a Pomegranate

Pomegranates are absolute Gems of Autumn - Not only do the ruby red seeds add a beautiful decorative touch to any meal or dessert, but they are also packed with antioxidants and nutrients. Pomegranates contain Vitamin C and other immune-boosting nutrients like vitamin E, so it's a must to keep that cold away during this cold season!

Since the seeds are so good, nature had guarded them well under that thick skin. Just how should we deseed a pomegranate without making a huge mess? Let us show you the no stress-method to opening a pomegranate!
 

What you need:

1. Pomegranates

2. A fruit knife

3. A Large bowl filled with water

4. Strainer

The Trick - Scoring The Sides

1. Cut off the crown portion of the pomegranate. You can see that the inside of the fruit is actually divided into sections.

2. Score the outer skin of the fruit, following the white ridges.

3. Carefully, pry apart the pomegranate sections you have created. Helpful tip! Pry the pomegranate submerged underwater in the large bowl to prevent the seeds from flying away, and keep the juices contained!

Deseeding The Pomegranate

1. Take one section of the pomegranate you have just pried apart, and bend the skin towards the water. Some of the seeds will begin to fall right off! For the remaining seeds, submerge the section under the water and separate the seeds from the skin with your fingers. 

2. Note - The white inner skin of the pomegranate called the pith will float on water while the seeds will sink to the bottom. When finished, just skim off the floating white piths and discard!

3. Use a strainer to drain the water

4. Enjoy!

Pomegranates can be enjoyed on its own, sprinkled onto a salad, or mixed into a tasty dessert! Whole Pomegranates can be stored in a cool place out of direct sunlight for a few weeks. If stored inside the refrigerator, they can last two months or more. The seeds can be kept in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for a week and can be frozen for up to one year. 

Pick up some pomegranate from your nearest Market Basket today!