Why are pomegranates challenging to open?
Pomegranates have a thick and leathery outer skin that requires some effort to breach. Additionally, inside the fruit, there are numerous small arils surrounded by a thin, bitter membrane. Separating these juicy seeds from the membrane without damaging them can be quite tricky if you don’t know the right technique.
What tools do you need?
Opening and cleaning a pomegranate requires minimal tools. Here’s what you will need:
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A large bowl of water
Step-by-step process
Step 1: Score the pomegranate
Begin by using the sharp knife to score the pomegranate around its circumference, making shallow cuts. Avoid cutting too deep to prevent damaging the seeds inside.
Step 2: Gently break it apart
Hold the scored pomegranate over the bowl of water and use your hands to gently break it apart along the scored lines. The water will help prevent juice splatters and stains.
Step 3: Loosen the arils
Submerge each half of the pomegranate in the water and use your fingers to loosen the arils. The arils will sink to the bottom of the bowl while the membrane floats to the top.
Step 4: Remove the membrane
Scoop out the floating membrane from the water using a slotted spoon or your fingers. Discard the membrane and repeat this step until all the arils are free from it.
Step 5: Strain and enjoy
Scoop out the arils from the bowl using a slotted spoon and transfer them into a strainer. Rinse them under running water to remove any remaining bits of membrane. Once strained, your freshly cleaned pomegranate arils are ready to be enjoyed!
Tips and tricks
- Wear an apron or old clothes while opening a pomegranate as the juice can stain.
- If you prefer less mess, you can also open a pomegranate underwater. Fill a large bowl with water and proceed with scoring and breaking it apart underwater. The arils will sink, and the membrane will float.
- You can store the arils in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Opening and cleaning a pomegranate may seem daunting at first, but with these easy tips and tricks, you’ll be able to master the process without any hassle. Enjoy the sweet and tangy rewards of this beautiful fruit without the fuss!