Instructions for Cutting Fresh Pomegranates

The juicy red arils can be eaten whole.

A fresh, exotic pomegranate can be eaten as soon as it is cut, or it can be added to a variety of recipes. The pomegranate contains hundreds of bright red juice sacs, also known as arils, that are bursting with pure flavor that is both tart and sweet. Cutting a pomegranate and knowing which parts to use and discard can be confusing, but this quick process is easy and mess-free. After the fruit is cut, simply enjoy the juicy arils or add them to your favorite dish as a brightly colored garnish.

Things You'll Need

• Pomegranate
• Knife
• Bowl of water
• Strainer

Instructions

1. Cut off the crown of the pomegranate, just as you would cut a lid for a jack o' lantern. Cut the pomegranate into four sections.

2. Place the sections in a bowl of water. Roll out the arils with your fingers and discard everything else, including any skin or white remnants that may be attached to the arils.

3. Pour the bowl and its contents into a strainer so that only the arils remain. The juicy arils can now be eaten whole, seeds and all.

Tips & Warnings

• Pomegranate juice can stain, so be careful to work away from your clothing and direct the juices into the bowl.

References

• Pomegranates: 3-Step No Mess
• Chow: Pomegranate