The Most Attractive Fruit 

The pomegranate is very beautiful for its royal crown and deep crimson color. Pomegranates have been appreciated in Armenia, old Persia, and modern-day Iran for 5,000 years. They are also mentioned in Greek myths and Middle Ages literature as a symbol of fertility and abundance. The name comes from Medieval Latin Granatum, meaning “many-seeded.” 

Pomegranates Are Considered a Modern Day Superfood   

Pomegranates are very high in antioxidants and contain a unique anti-inflammatory fatty acid called punicic acid, which has many health benefits. Pomegranates are a good source of vitamin E, K and B6, magnesium, potassium and have 50% fiber content.

How to Use Them? 

Pomegranates can be intimidating if one does not know how to peel or consume them. Yes, it does take practice. Pomegranates are used mainly in Middle Eastern cuisine in delicious sauces and in baked goods. So get creative; they can be added to salads or adorn any dishes. Pomegranates can be found in stores for a very short winter season, so appreciate them while you can! 

 How to Open Them? 

Pomegranates are simple to cut open and retrieve the seeds. There are several techniques, one of them suggests opening them underwater, so the seeds are not splashing all over, but the technique below worked for me. 

  • Using a small paring knife, cut around the crown deep enough to reach the seeds.
  • By cutting just deep enough under the skin yet not damaging the seeds, you can divide into sections like one would an orange.
  • With a little force, pull the two halves apart. This is the stage where the splashing of pomegranate juices may happen, so wear an apron. This part some people suggest to conduct with the pomegranate submerged in water. 
  • Pomegranates can dress up otherwise simple dishes. Add them to salads, guacamole, or hummus. 

Disclaimer:

Information contained here is not intended to treat or cure any diseases or to be a substitute for medical advice.

Superfoods: the healthiest foods on the planet by Tonia Reinhard. 

Book 613.2 REINHARD

Magda Born

mborn@kckpl.org

Community Services Librarian

Kansas City, Kansas Public Library

625 Minnesota Ave.

Kansas City, KS 66101

913-295-8250 ext 1103