Hollywood Food -

Pomegranates | The Wonder Fruit

Also known as the Chinese Apple, the pomegranate has recently gained much popularity, and for many good reasons. High in vitamins, minerals and beneficial antioxidants, it’s even been found to be helpful in the fight against tooth decay. Surprisingly, the pomegranate has been around for thousands of years, but we are only now starting to learn just what this wonderful fruit is capable of.

The History of the Pomegranate

It is believed that pomegranate trees were planted by man over five-thousand years ago; making it one of the oldest cultivated fruits. The name “pomegranate” actually comes from the Latin word pomum (meaning apple) and the Latin word granatus (meaning seeded). The pomegranate can be found in many countries including Malaya, tropical Africa, the East Indies, India, Iran, and even the drier areas of southeast Asia. In 1769, Spanish settlers introduced the pomegranate to California and it has since been cultivated in, not only California, but Arizona as well.

Health Benefits of Pomegranates

It is believed that drinking a glass of pomegranate juice, once a day, can not only reduce cholesterol, but can also lower your blood pressure (mainly systolic pressure). Pomegranates contain many different antioxidants including tannins, antthocyanins, and polyphenols. In fact, the levels of antioxidants in pomegranates are even higher then what can be found in red wine, green tea, and most other fruit juices. The pomegranate is also a good source or Vitamin B, potassium, antithetic acid, and it contains sixteen percent of your daily recommended allowance of vitamin C.

Still not impressed? Another interesting fact is that the juice of this amazing fruit has even been shown to have antibacterial effects, helpful in preventing dental plaque buildup. Recent research has also led to the discovery that pomegranate juice may help in the fight against osteoarthritis and prostate cancer. Some people even believe that the pomegranate fruit is a powerful aphrodisiac! With only 21 grams of sugar and 0 grams of fat, there’s very few reasons not to take a little time out of your day and indulge yourself in this delicious and beneficial fruit.

Preparing the Pomegranate

If you are not careful breaking and removing the arils (seed casings) of a pomegranate, eating this delectable dessert can be a difficult and messy task. The best way to remove the arils of this fruit is by first scoring the pomegranate with a knife and then placing it in a bowl of water for about 3-5 minutes. Once the 3-5 minutes have passed, peel off the skin and the capellary membrane (the white supporting walls on the inside), while the fruit is immersed in the water. As you remove the skin and membrane, the arils will fall to the bottom of the bowl of water, and the skin and membrane will float to the top.

Although most of the flavor comes from the outer portion of the aril, where most of the juice is located, the entire seed can be eaten raw. Pomegranate does not have to be eaten alone either; it can also be used in salads, yogurt, jelly, syrup, vinaigrette, and even makes a wonderful ice-cream topping. Aside for being good to eat, they also serve as wonderful decorations for around the house, especially during the holiday season, and dried pomegranates are frequently used as old-fashioned natural Christmas tree ornaments.

If you’re looking for a delightful taste sensation or you are delving into the realms of a healthier lifestyle, the pomegranate is a wonderful addition to your diet. Delightful to look at and sweet to the taste, it’s no wonder this fruit was considered an aphrodisiac - one taste and you’re sure to fall in love!

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