| Fun Facts |
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- Pomegranates are one of the oldest fruits, dating back to ancient times. They grow wild from Iran to northern India, but are cultivated throughout India, the Middle East, southern Europe and California. |
- There are many varieties of pomegranates, with colors ranging from yellow-orange to deep reddish-purple.
- "Wonderful" is the most widely planted commercial pomegranate and the most common variety found in grocery stores.
- Fresh pomegranates are typically available from September until January and are picked and shipped ripe, so they are ready to eat.
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| Perfect Picks |
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- Look for plump, round, and heavy fruits that are dark pink or red in color.
- Choose the largest fruits you can find; the bigger the pomegranate, the juicier.
- Avoid those with dry, brown, wrinkled skin or ones that are very firm.
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| Storing Pomegranates |
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Whole pomegranates stay fresh for about 2 weeks when stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. |
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- In the refrigerator, they can be stored for up to 2 months.
- Once the seeds are removed, seal them in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator, for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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| Removing Seeds (the easy way!) |
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- Cut the pomegranate in half and submerge in a large bowl of cold water.
- Separate the seeds from the inner membrane of the fruit, using your fingers. Discard membrane and outer rind.
- Drain seeds in a colander. The seeds can be eaten whole, or passed through a juicer, fruit juice press, or food mill to extract the juice.
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| Cooking with Pomegranates |
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- Pomegranate seeds are a delicious and colorful addition to any dish, sweet or savory. The seeds can be sprinkled in salads, scattered over chicken, pork, and lamb dishes. For dessert, spoon over yogurt and ice cream.
- Pomegranate molasses, a thick syrup made from the pomegranate, is widely used in the Middle East. A splash of pomegranate molasses adds a sweet-tartness to vinaigrette, marinades, braises and dips.
- Pomegranate juice is also a popular ingredient in the kitchen. It can be used to create sauces, dressings, sorbets and smoothies.
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| Healthy Benefits |
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Pomegranates are not only gorgeous and delicious, they’re also one of the most nutritious fruits you can eat. Eating them may support cardiovascular health and help avoid certain kinds of cancer.  Healthy Facts:
- Good source of Vitamin C
- High in fiber
- Loaded with potassium
- Contain antioxidants known as polyphenols.
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