How to Seed a Pomegranate the Easy Way

A super easy way to remove pomegranate seeds in less than a minute, allowing you to enjoy the sweet and juicy arils with minimal mess!

What is Pomegranate?

Pomegranate is a vibrant and nutrient-rich autumn/winter fruit known for its ruby-red arils, each containing juicy, sweet-tart seeds. This ancient fruit has a unique flavor profile and is celebrated for its potential health benefits. Whether enjoyed on its own, added to salads, or used in various culinary creations, pomegranate adds a burst of color and delightful taste to dishes.

Ingredients for How to Seed a Pomegranate

• Pomegranates: Choose those with a vibrant deep red color, without bruises or cuts.

Recommended Equipment

• Sharp Knife: To cut the fruit in half.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Needed to tap the pomegranate.
• Large Size Bowl: To catch the pomegranate seeds as they fall out.

How to Seed a Pomegranate the Easy Way

Cut Pom: Wash the pomegranate well, and then slice the pomegranate in half horizontally.

Seeding: Take one of the halves and hold the cut side down in the palm over a bowl. Gently tap the top surface of the pomegranate with the back of a wooden spoon or spatula. Keep tapping all around the fruit.

As you tap, the seeds will fall out through the bottom of the pomegranate. Continue tapping until most of the seeds have been released. Repeat with the other half.

Note: Handle pomegranate seeds gently to avoid squashing them, as this can release bitter compounds from the membrane.

How to Choose a Good Pomegranate

The pomegranates you buy in the store are ripe and ready to eat.

• Weight: A ripe pomegranate should feel heavy for its size, indicating it’s full of juicy seeds.
• Color: Choose a vibrant and deep red color; shades depend on the variety of pomegranate.
• Shape: Opt for a plump and round pom. Avoid ones with blemishes, cuts, or bruises.
• Skin Texture should be taut and smooth. Wrinkles or soft spots might indicate overripeness.
• Sound: Gently tap the pom; a metallic sound indicates that the seeds are plump and juicy.
• Crown: The flower-shaped area at the top should be dry, indicating that the fruit is mature.

Tips for Best Results

• Sink: For a mess-free experience, it’s best to do this over the sink.
• Bowl: Use a large bowl to catch all the seeds as they fall out.
• Spoon: Use a thicker-sized wooden spoon for better results.
• Hold the pomegranate cut side down to reduce mess.
• Avoid squashing them, as this can release bitter compounds from the membrane.

Storing & Serving

How to Store: Store pomegranate arils (seeds) in an airtight container or zipper bag. Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. Alternatively, freeze them for several months.

To Freeze: Spread arils (seeds) in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze, uncovered, for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a zipper freezer bag.

Yields: 1 pom 4-inch in diameter (9 ounces/ 282 grams), seeds 5 ½ ounces, about 1 cup in total
Servings: 2 servings of ½ cup / 87 grams

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast: Sprinkle seeds on your yogurt or oatmeal for a burst of flavor and nutrition.
• Salads: Toss seeds into green salads or fruit salads to add color, sweetness, and a juicy crunch.
• Dessert: Use them as a colorful and flavorful topping for desserts.
• Snack Mix: Incorporate them into your favorite snack mix for a sweet and tangy element.
• Parfait: Make a delicious fruit parfait by layering yogurt, granola, and pomegranate seeds.

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