"It was the nightingale, and not the lark, that pierced the fearful hollow of thine ear. Nightly she sings on yon pomegranate-tree. Believe me, love, it was the nightingale."
- William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

How to harvest seeds
Place fruit tip up; cut in half horizontally. Holding each half cut side down over bowl, sharply tap top with large, heavy spoon to knock out seeds; discard bitter membrane. One fruit yields about 3/4 cup (175 mL) seeds.

How to juice
Roll pomegranate on work surface applying gentle pressure but without breaking skin. Using paring knife, remove crown (like tomato core). Place fine sieve over measuring cup. Squeeze fruit to release juice into sieve. Scrape seeds from fruit into sieve; press to remove juice. One fruit yields about 1/3 cup (75 mL) juice.

What it is
Pomegranates are an ancient fruit thought to have originated in Persia or Afghanistan but now grown in subtropical regions throughout the world (including Australia, China, India and California's Central Valley). These handsome rosy orbs with tufted crowns, bursting with juicy jewel-like sacs, are in stores from fall to early winter, just in time for the holidays. For festive treats, sprinkle the seeds over ice-cream parfaits, pancakes or waffles, salads and couscous, or jazz up pomegranate juice (either freshly squeezed or bottled) with sparkling wine or soda.

Choosing the best
Choose fruit that is heavy for its size with thin, bright, unbruised red or yellow skin. Seeds vary from ruby red to pale pink, so fruit markets often display a sample pomegranate to show the colour and quality of the seeds. Juicy-looking seed sacs have the fullest flavour.

Storing
Pomegranates will keep for about one week at room temperature or for up to one month in the refrigerator. Once cut, the fruit deteriorates quickly so use within four days. Frozen seeds will keep for up to three months in an airtight bag.

Sensational syrups
Pomegranate molasses
This dark, thick, sweet-sour syrup made from reduced pomegranate juice is used in Mediterranean cooking, such as Muhammara dip and grilled and roasted meats. It is available in Middle Eastern markets.

Grenadine
This is a bright, sweet pomegranate-flavoured syrup used to colour and flavour drinks and desserts. At one time, grenadine was made exclusively from pomegranates grown on the island of Grenada, but many brands now have sugar (or fructose) as the main ingredient.

Try our pomegranate recipes:
• Pomegranate Vinaigrette
• Orange and Avocado salad (with pomegranate seeds)