Right now across the US, pomegranates can be found in supermarkets, farmers markets, and maybe even in your own yard (especially in California). This festive fruit with beautiful bright red seeds is both delicious and looks amazing on the plate. Among other things, the incredible pomegranate protects against arthritis, heart disease, high blood pressure, diarrhea, and dental plaque. It also has twice as many antioxidants as green tea, helps improve digestion, contains 40% of your daily dose of immune-boosting vitamin C, helps wounds to heal faster, and has even been considered a natural aphrodisiac throughout the ages.
Its deep cavities full of juicy seeds can be intimidating and quite messy, but pomegranate seeds are actually easy to remove neatly when done under water. Cut open your pomegranate and remove the seeds in a bowl of cold water. Use the seeds whole or juice them for a delicious drink.
There are many tasty culinary applications for the pomegranate. Their sweet/tart flavor can be paired with an amazing variety of foods from meat dishes to salads to desserts. Drop seeds in sparkling beverages for color and flavor. Sprinkle on salads and other savory dishes, or on desserts such as ice cream or frosted cupcakes. Make jelly, sauces, dressings, marinades, and glazes. Add pomegranate seeds and/or juice to your batter when making brownies, cookies, or other baked goods. They’re great in pancakes, too!
To remove any bright pink stains from your hands, use lemon juice and salt, then wash with soap.
This flavorsome and nutritious food is in season, not to mention aptly colored for the holidays. Stock up and see what creations you can come up with!
Sources:
http://www.squidoo.com/pomegranatepower
http://catsgotstuff.blogspot.com/2011/07/nutrition-facts-for-pomegranates.html
http://sofs.hubpages.com/hub/Health-benefits-of-Pomegranates-Pomegranate-the-healing-fruit