The pomegranate, with its thick red skin and miniature crown, is a complex fruit. It houses hundreds of arils (small edible seeds encased in a juicy, brilliant-red pulp) that are separated into clusters by a bitter cream-color membrane. The seeds are edible with a sweet-tart flavor. Touted for their protective antioxidants, pomegranate seeds are also a very good source of vitamin C and vitamin K, and a good source of dietary fiber and folate. Use the seeds in desserts, salads, and more, and drink the pomegranate juice or use it in dressings or sauces. We know, pomegranate fruits look daunting, but once you remove the pomegranate seeds (aka arils) the process of making homemade pomegranate juice is easier than you might think. Read on for our Test Kitchen's easy step-by-step process for how to juice a pomegranate.
Before juicing a pomegranate, it's important to note the vivid-red juice can stain. Be sure to clean your work surfaces surface immediately with warm, soapy water. Also, consider wearing an apron or work shirt since the seeds can be messy.
Using a sharp knife ($16, Target), cut the fruit vertically in half. Gently break the pomegranate halves into smaller sections. Place the pomegranate sections in a bowl of cool water. Using your fingers, loosen the seeds from each section into the water. The seeds will sink to the bottom. Discard the peel and membrane that will be left floating on top. Related: 15 Fresh and Tasty Pomegranate Recipes
Test Kitchen Tip: You can store the seeds in a covered container in the refrigerator for several days, or freeze them in a sealed freezer container for up to 1 year.
Homemade pomegranate juice takes just minutes to make once you've seeded the pomegranate. You don't even need a special pomegranate juicer or pomegranate juice press. Place the drained seeds in a high-power blender ($160, Target) or food processor, and blend or process until combined into a pulp. Transfer the pulp to a sieve set over a bowl. Using the back of a spoon, press the pulp to release the juice into the bowl below. (This is the same process you'd use to make seedless raspberry sauce.) Taste the juice. If ripe enough, it won't need any sweetener, and you can start reaping the delicious pomegranate juice benefits. If it seems too tart, add a bit of maple syrup or your desired sweetener, just a little at a time, to get it to the perfect level of sweetness. Use this pomegranate juice recipe as is, as a beverage, or as an ingredient in sauces (like this juicy pomegranate pot roast), salad dressings, juice blends, or cocktails. Pomegranates are most abundant in the fall through January, making them a festive holiday fruit. Choose heavy fruits with bright, blemish-free skins, and store them in a cool, dark place for up to 1 month or in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. You can also purchase just the pomegranate seeds to make homemade pomegranate juice easier to make. It is beneficial for many medical conditions. Juice of pomegranate is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin B5 and potassium and it’s scientifically proven to be effective in reducing LDL (bad cholesterol) and raising HDL (good cholesterol). Fresh pomegranate fruit juice is not only healthy but very easy to prepare at home within few minutes using a blender (without a juicer).
Directions:
Tips and Variations:
Taste: Natural sweet and tart taste Serving Ideas: It is a perfect breakfast or after-workout drink as it packs lots of vital nutrients and prepares your body for a hectic day ahead. Serve it in limited amount to infants and growing kids. |