About Pomegranates

Pomegranates are one of the world's most nutritious fruits. For that reason they have become very popular in mainstream America. They contain very high levels of antioxidants, leading to their classification as a "super-fruit." Pomegranates also have a rich history, figuring heavily into both Persian cuisine and Jewish folklore and symbolism.

Identification

Pomegranates are easily identified. They are a fairly large fruit, about the size of a grapefruit, and covered with a smooth, leathery red skin. When opened, clusters of translucent purplish red arils are clearly visible, surrounded by a white membrane. The arils, including their seeds, are completely edible. Although the skin and membrane are not toxic, they are unpleasantly bitter and not usually eaten. Pomegranates are usually available in grocery stores during the winter months.

Benefits

Pomegranates are high in polyphenols, an important antioxidant; as a result, pomegranate juice is a popular drink among the health-conscious. Pomegranates are also high in Vitamin C, folic acid, potassium and fiber. Most of the fiber contained in the fruit is in the edible seeds.

Geography

Pomegranates are native to Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan and India. They are also cultivated in many parts of the world, including India, the East Indies, and in the United States, Arizona and California. Many traditional Persian recipes, especially soups, call for pomegranate juice.

History of

Pomegranates have been cultivated for several thousand years, primarily in the Middle East and parts of Asia. The fruit figures heavily into Jewish religion, symbolism, and folklore; some Jewish scholars believe that the pomegranate was the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. The word pomegranate comes from the Middle French term pome garnete, which means "seeded apple." The modern French word for pomegranate is "grenade;" the weapon was named after the fruit.

Function

Pomegranate juice is a popular health drink and traditional Persian culinary ingredient. Dried seeds are also ground and used as a spice in India and the Middle East, where they are known as Anardana. Pomegranates are also used decoratively, as a garnish for soups and salads, and the trees are grown for their ornamental foliage. Pomegranates are also simply peeled and the crunchy arils eaten raw.