Pomegranate, still in our days, is considered a fruit of good fortune. It is now increasingly recognized as a superfood because of its many positive health effects, and it's one of the most important ingredients in vegan recipes as well. Its only major disadvantage seems to be the way we deseed it, which is a suffering to all. But we'll give you the solution to this problem, as well, so you can enjoy this delicious fruit whenever you want, by putting it in your vegan diet for good.

You can remove all seeds in three simple steps and in less than a minute:

  1. Cut only the skin around (in the middle of the pomegranate).
  2. Grab the two parts firmly and twist to separate the two pieces.
  3. Tap with a wooden spoon to remove the seeds from the pomegranate.

Watch the video:

 

 

 

Characteristics of the plant

Its scientific name is Punica granatum and it's a little tree which in some cases can reach up to 3 meters (10 feet) high. The energy it contains is about 70 calories/100 grams. The varieties found worldwide are more than 500. Each variety has its own distinctive fruit color (Greek ones are a little whiter) and taste (sweet or sour) and they ripen in October. One pomegranate can meet half our daily needs of Vitamin C. It also contains significant amounts of potassium, fiber, vitamin K, folic acid and many other essential elements and molecules for the body.

Its beneficial effects on the body

Apart from its objectively unique and wonderful taste, pomegranate has numerous positive effects on our health due to its substances, some of which cannot be found anywhere else in nature. Specifically:

  • It has anti-aging effects due to its antioxidants (tannins, polyphenols, anthocyanins, other phenolic substances), which are contained in greater quantity than other fruits or extracts.
  • It protects the heart by removing harmful free radicals, enhancing the body's ability to not oxidize bad LDL cholesterol, by lowering blood pressure and improving blood circulation.
  • It strengthens the immune system, as it has antimicrobial, healing and anti-inflammatory action. Additionally, the vitamin C it contains helps its proper function.
  • It fights obesity by boosting the metabolism, when consuming about 100 ml of juice daily.
  • Improves mood, while also acting as an aphrodisiac, having a positive effect on hormone balance.
  • It has antiallergic action due to the polyphenols it contains, which are involved in the biochemical processes that can slow down the symptoms of allergies.
  • It has anti-cancer activity against prostate, breast and skin cancer due to the protection of the genetic material of the cells.

How to choose the right pomegranates

As we mentioned, different varieties have different characteristics. However, it is generally advised to choose pomegranates with smooth, tight peel, ripe, with vivid red or orange-brown peel. When the seeds fall on a plate they should make a metallic sound.

Where to use it

It's an ingredient that can be used in almost every vegan recipe. It can be consumed as it is or you can drink its juice. It's used in sauces, salads and can be perfectly combined with rice, couscous, cream or other desserts. It pairs perfectly with nuts, and with its juice we can make soft drinks, syrups (grenadine), cocktails, sauces, jello, jams.

Maintenance

Pomegranates can be stored either at room temperature, in the refrigerator (5°C/41°F) or even in the freezer, where they can be stored for months. Over time, the seeds become more fragrant and juicy.

 

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