Pomegranate (Punica granatum)
The pomegranate tree is a deciduous tree that grows to a height of no more than 25 feet. The tree produces beautiful red flowers, each containing four to five petals. The pomegranate tree is a fruit-bearing tree, producing the delicious and beautiful pomegranate fruit.
Originally, this exotic fruit was found in the Middle East and Asia. Through diffusion, the pomegranate has dispersed and is now a common sight in places like Southern Europe, Africa and the Southern United States of America.
The pomegranate fruit is roughly the size of a grapefruit. It is somewhat round in shape, with a thick, red skin covering. Encased in the skin lie the hundreds of red, semi-sweet, juicy arils, which are surrounded by a thin, cream coloured membrane. The membrane and the skin are not edible, but the red arils, including the tiny, white seeds that are surrounded by the juicy pulp, are for consumption. The pomegranate is rich in vitamin C and potassium. It is very low in calories and also a good source of fibre.
The pomegranate fruit can be used in a variety of ways, including: eating the arils raw or dried, using the arils as toppings for desserts such as ice cream, creating glazes for meats, turning the arils into jam, syrup or crushing the arils and the seeds into juice. Pomegranate juice is now becoming popular in North America. The juice is said to be particularly high in antioxidants, which aids in the prevention of cancer and heart disease.
Choosing a Good Pomegranate
This versatile fruit is best when the skin is shiny, firm to the touch, heavy in weight (this ensures plenty of juice and freshness) and not bruised.
Opening the Pomegranate
How does one remove all those hundreds of delicious red arils? The pomegranate can be cut into sections which are then placed in a bowl of water. The arils can be rolled out with your fingers. The arils will sink to the bottom of the bowl, while the cream coloured membrane floats to the surface. Another method involves cutting the pomegranate fruit across vertically. Take one half, cut side down, pry the skin apart gently on opposite sides and then while holding the fruit, cut side down, over a deep bowl, hit the top of the pomegranate with a large spoon repeatedly. The arils should come out easily. Repeat with the other half section of the fruit. Remember, juice from the pomegranate arils does stain!
The pomegranate has been cultivated for a very long time. It is an ancient fruit that holds special meaning to many different cultures. Myths and legends surround this fascinating fruit. It has captivated the imaginations of many and it is a fruit that is difficult to resist. Just ask Persephone! |
