WHAT IS A POMEGRANATE?
This fruit is actually a berry from a shrub capable of growing up to 33 feet (10 meteres) in height. Famous for its thick, leathery skin and bounty of seeds (called arils) the pomegranate is three times as rich as green tea or wine in antioxidants. Originally native to the mountains of Persia and India, it has since spread to arid parts of Europe and North America.
WHY ARE POMEGRANATES GOOD FOR YOU?
One of the most famous super foods in Western culture, it’s rich in anti-oxidants, fiber, potassium, vitamin C and yet low in calories. While not proven, it’s thought that drinking pomegranate juice helps to lower blood pressure by improving blood flow. Pomegranates are also thought to help to slow down the oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
WHEN ARE POMEGRANATES IN SEASON?
In arid and sub-tropical parts of the northern hemisphere, they’re a September through January harvest (down south March to May).
HOW SHOULD POMEGRANATES BE STORED?
Whole pomegranates will last longest when stored in a refrigerator. When the arils are harvested they should still be chilled but in an airtight container for 6 to 8 weeks.
WHAT IS THE PROPER WAY TO CUT A POMEGRANATE?
Click here to see! The seeds sink in water while the rest of the pulp floats so use a bowl of water for ease.
DID ADAM AND EVE EAT A POMEGRANATE INSTEAD OF AN APPLE?
The name of this fruit is actually means “seeded apple.” Pomegranates have long been associated with forbidden knowledge in many cultures. And the Old Testament never mentions an apple, only a forbidden “fruit.” So no one knows for sure. But this fruit grenade of seeds and symbolic knowledge is just as likely a candidate.