Pomegranates are a culinary delicacy, but deseeding them can be a challenge. We show four tricks on how to do it cleanly and efficiently.
Pomegranates are known not only for their juicy taste but also for their health benefits. But coring the fruit can quickly end in a mess if you don't know the right technique. There are various tricks and methods to get the delicious seeds without turning your kitchen or clothing into a battlefield.
1. The underwater method
This method is ideal for preventing stains. First, the pomegranate is cut at the base of the flower. Then score the shell along the white separating membranes. Open the pomegranate under water in a bowl. The kernels easily separate from the membranes and sink to the bottom, while the white parts float on top. This means the kernels can be easily removed without any juice splashing.
2. The tapping with the spoon
After removing the flower base and cutting the peel into segments, hold a segment over a bowl and gently tap the peel with a spoon. The seeds fall out without the juice squirting. This method requires some patience, but is effective. For other fruits such as bananas, the peel can also be reused.
3. Direct squeezing for juice
Pomegranate juice contains many antioxidants and is therefore particularly healthy. If you want to use the juice of the pomegranate, cut the fruit in half and squeeze it like a citrus fruit. The juice is ideal for dressings or jellies. Be sure to do this over a bowl to catch the juice.
4. Manual coring in quarters or fifths
Remove the “hat” and cut the shell into quarters or fifths without damaging the seeds. Carefully break open the pomegranate and use your hands to remove the seeds over a bowl. This method gives you direct access to the seeds and minimizes the mess.
Each of these methods helps to remove the pomegranate's delicious seeds efficiently and without much effort. The juicy seeds are not only a healthy snack, but also a wonderful addition to many dishes. Their versatility in the kitchen and health benefits more than make up for the small hassle of deseeding. With these tricks, the next pomegranate should no longer be a challenge. Other fruit can also be easily pitted using simple methods; a trick with a bottle helps when pitting cherries.