It’s pomegranate season!
The fall fruit that makes its way into so many super food lists is one of our faves, and with good reason. Whether for breakfast, lunch, dinner or dessert, the uses of pomegranate are endless. It’s not just what to eat these seedy wonders with that makes them so great, or all of the health benefits. Pomegranates have a rich history and a bit of a famous reputation all over the world. Here’s a few facts about pomegranates.
Divine Fruit
Throughout ancient history, cultures and religions related the deep red fruit with the gods. Pomegranates in the Bible were used as decoration, and played an important role in the garments of Jewish high priests. They are a symbol of righteousness and said to contain 613 seeds, the same number as verses in the Torah. The pomegranate is eaten one seed at a time during Rosh Hashanah, for as many wishes as possible to be fulfilled. In China, the pomegranate is a symbol of fertility, and Buddha is often depicted holding a pomegranate. The ancient Greeks associated the pomegranate with the god of wine, Dionysus, as well as Persephone-which related to the beginning of spring and thus became a symbol of rejuvenation and eternal life. Wow! What a history.
Long Life & Long History
The word “pomegranate” means apple with many seeds, and the fruit originated in the Middle East. Though the name is a middle French word, Europeans were not quick to adapt to using the fruit. The Moors brought pomegranates into Europe, and Europe was more of a meat eating culture at the time, not trusting fruit as much as their high protein & high fat diets. Though once they did understand the pomegranate, it was used in much the same way as lemons or lemon juice is today, even as a condiment to add acidity to fats.
Universally Good
There are numerous reasons pomegranates are considered a superfood from being high in polyphenols (help prevent cancer), fiber, protein, tons of vitamins, and are good for your blood and brain. But don’t take our word for it, hear it from Ms. Pomegranate herself:
On top of the healthy goodness, the flavor of pomegranate seeds, or arils, is easy to blend in to sweet and savory dishes alike. You can use the arils in seeds, bake them into muffins or cakes, and even add to this year’s Thanksgiving stuffing. Cook the seeds down to make molasses, or a tasty glaze With the universal uses and long history of pomegranate, the cooking ideas and fun ways to eat are endless! And by the way, if you need a refresher on how to easily cut a pomegranate, here you go.