How to cut a pomegranate correctly
If you’ve ever wondered how to cut a pomegranate without making a huge mess of yourself and your countertops, then you’re in the right place. Here we show you step-by-step the easiest way to cut and deseed this gorgeous ruby-red fruit that’s in season from October to January. You can purchase pomegranate arils at most grocery stores, but they cost quite a bit more than purchasing a single fruit. So this method for cutting a pomegranate at home can save you some money, too! Plus, we share tips for freezing pomegranate seeds so that you can enjoy them long after their season has passed.
What you need to cut a pomegranate
Cutting board – Prevent your cutting board from slipping by placing a damp dishcloth or kitchen towel on the counter then place the cutting board on top. Large knife – We recommend using a sharp chef’s knife such as this oneSmall paring knife – A small knife that is easy to handle will making it easy to score the skin of the pomegranate without cutting into the seeds Medium bowl – Fill the bowl with cool water, enough so that you can submerge the pomegranate under the surfaceColander or strainer – To drain the seeds after removing them from the skin and membranes for perfectly cleaned seeds that are ready to enjoy
How to cut a pomegranate
Here are the quick steps. Once you cut a pomegranate this way one time, it will feel so natural and quick to do it this way every time!
good source of antioxidants and polyphenols provides anti-inflammatory effects a heart-healthy food and drink has urinary and prostate health benefits similar to cranberry juice may benefit brain health
Learn more about the nutrition benefits of pomegranate here Pomegranates are in-season October through January but pomegranate juice can be purchased year-round.
Lay the pomegranate on its side. Use a large, sharp knife (such as a chef’s knife) to cut 1/2 inch from the pomegranate top (blossom end) to expose the seeds (called arils) inside.Find the ridges of the pomegranate either by looking at the exposed top or use your fingers to feel them along the side of the pomegranate.Cut along the ridges: Use a sharp paring knife to cut along the ridges from top to bottoms, just deep enough to cut through the red skin but not pierce the seeds inside. There should be 6 ridges. If you can’t feel them, look at the top of the pomegranate where you made the first cut. You should be able to see the thin pithy membranes that divide each section.Fill a medium bowl with water. Using your hands, gently pry the pomegranate apart into several sections while holding it above the water or just below the surface. Allow the seeds and any pieces of membranes to fall into the water.Loosen the arils: Use your fingers to pry away the seeds from the skin and membranes. Doing this while submerging the pomegranate keeps the bright red juice from splattering and staining your countertops or clothing.Leave only the arils behind: When all of the seeds have been removed from the pomegranate, use your hand to skim the pieces of membranes and skin from the surface of the water.Last step! Drain the pomegranate seeds using a fine mesh strainer or colander and store for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Video: How to Cut a Pomegranate
5 Healthy Recipes featuring pomegranate seeds
Though incredibly delicious on their own, we love adding them to recipes like these:
Baked Vanilla Protein Oatmeal – top with yogurt, pomegranate seeds, and chopped pistachios for a satisfying make-ahead breakfastHoney Whipped Goat Cheese with Pomegranates – the perfect easy-to-make appetizer for entertainingPomegranate Kombucha Mimosas – a light and fruity addition to any brunch spread Harvest Salad with Quinoa and Butternut Squash – this salad is packed with color and textures and features pomegranate seeds for a bit of natural sweetnessRoasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic – made with 7 ingredients, each bite offers a mix of sweet, crunchy, salty, and creamy
Ways to use pomegranate seeds
Fresh pomegranate seeds are a pretty and festive way to add color and crunch to many dishes. Here are a few ways to enjoy this nutritious fruit:
Sprinkled over yogurt or skyr As a topping for oatmeal Blended into a smoothieTossed into a saladAdded to a glass of sparkling wine, champagne, or seltzer water
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