The pomegranate, with its jewel-toned arils, is a delicious and healthy fruit. But let’s be honest: the thought of cutting it open and extracting those precious seeds (arils) can be daunting. Visions of stained kitchen counters and red-splattered clothes often deter even the most enthusiastic eaters.
But fear not! Mastering how to eat a pomegranate doesn’t have to be a messy battle. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the easiest, mess-free methods to cut and deseed a pomegranate, clarify whether you should eat the seeds, and offer delicious ways to enjoy this vibrant fruit.
Table of Contents
Can You Eat Pomegranate Seeds? (The Whole Arils)
This is one of the most common questions about pomegranates, and the answer is a resounding YES!
The tiny, juicy, red sacs inside the pomegranate are called arils, and these are the edible part. Each aril contains a crunchy, white, edible seed. These seeds are perfectly safe to eat and are packed with fiber, making them an excellent addition to your diet. So, don’t spit them out – enjoy the whole aril for maximum flavor and nutrition!
How to Cut and Open a Pomegranate (3 Best Methods)
Before you start, make sure you have a sharp paring knife, a cutting board, and a bowl ready.
The Water Method (Mess-Free & Beginner-Friendly)
This is our top recommendation for anyone who wants to avoid stains and minimize effort.
- Prep: Lightly score around the crown (top flower part) of the pomegranate. Cut the pomegranate in half crosswise.
- Submerge: Fill a large bowl with water. Gently place one half of the pomegranate cut-side down into the water.
- Release Arils: Under the water, gently break apart the sections of the pomegranate with your fingers. The arils will sink to the bottom, while the white membrane (pith) will float to the top.
- Strain: Once all the arils are separated, skim off the floating white pith and discard it. Drain the water through a colander, leaving you with perfectly clean arils.
The Wooden Spoon Method (Fast & Satisfying)
This method is quick and satisfying, though it can be a little messy if you’re not careful.
- Prep: Cut the pomegranate in half crosswise.
- Hold Over Bowl: Hold one half of the pomegranate (cut-side down) over a large, empty bowl. Spread your fingers slightly to open up the fruit.
- Whack It: Take a wooden spoon (or a heavy kitchen utensil) and firmly tap the back of the pomegranate. The arils will quickly fall out into the bowl. Repeat for the other half.
- Remove Pith: Pick out any remaining white pith by hand.
5 Delicious Ways to Eat Pomegranate Arils
Once you have your bowl of sparkling arils, the possibilities are endless!
Simply by the Spoonful: The easiest way! Enjoy them as a refreshing, healthy snack.
In Salads: Pomegranate arils add a beautiful pop of color and tart sweetness to green salads. Try them with feta cheese, walnuts, and a balsamic vinaigrette. (Pair perfectly with our Winter Persimmon & Pomegranate Salad for an amazing combination!)
Yogurt Parfaits: Layer them with Greek yogurt and granola for a vibrant breakfast or dessert.
Juice It: Blend the arils and strain the juice for a tart, healthy drink. (Be warned: this can be messy even after deseeding!)
Dessert Topping: Sprinkle over ice cream, pudding, or even chocolate bark for an elegant finish.
Help! How to Remove Pomegranate Stains? (Expert Tip)
Even with the best methods, sometimes a rogue aril escapes! Here’s how to deal with those stubborn red stains:
- From Hands: Rub a slice of lemon or a paste of baking soda and water on your hands, then rinse.
- From Clothes: Act fast! Rinse the stain with cold water. Then, gently rub a mixture of dish soap and a little white vinegar onto the stain before washing as usual. Avoid hot water, which can set the stain.
Final Bite of Wisdom
Don’t let the fear of a mess keep you from enjoying the incredible flavor and health benefits of pomegranates. With these simple, mess-free methods, you can easily cut and deseed a pomegranate in minutes, ready to enjoy its juicy arils in countless ways.
So go ahead, grab a pomegranate (or two!), and make it a regular part of your healthy eating routine.
Now that you know how to eat them, find out when to buy them in season with our Pomegranate Season Guide!
