Updated on April 9th, 2023
Pomegranates have a distinct flavor with a tartness found nowhere else on the planet. Notably, they are not only delicious but are also packed with nutrients. As a result, including them in your dish is a great way to improve your health.
So, maybe you have found that perfect recipe that calls for pomegranate seeds, but you don’t have any at hand? And your local store is out of stock? This means you will need to find a fine replacement for pomegranate seeds in your recipe as soon as possible.
When it comes to pomegranate substitutes, there are a variety of possibilities. There’s no need to be overwhelmed about finding them since most of them are simple to locate.
Read on to learn more about pomegranate seeds, their uses in recipes, and valuable substitutes you can use when you are in a pinch.
Pomegranate Nutrition Facts
What are Pomegranate Seeds?
Pomegranate seeds – also known as pomegranate arils – are the pomegranate fruit’s seed. These rich, succulent seeds are bursting at the seams with taste. The tasty flesh surrounds the seed, but you may eat them whole, seeds and all.
Pomegranates are available in the United States from October to January. When the pomegranate fruit is fully mature, it will crack open, eating the seeds.
You can break it apart, and the seeds are separated into small compartments – it is quite similar to citrus. You may either pluck the seeds out with your fingers – which is messy but maybe exciting – or you can use a spoon to scrape them into a bowl. Notably, pomegranate juice may be rather staining.
Pomegranate seeds have a somewhat acidic or sour flavor with a hint of sweetness. They have a fruity flavor, but it isn’t easy to discern because they are not the sweetest.
Pomegranate growers have started making the seeds – arils – available both frozen and fresh in plastic containers because the fruit is messy and time-consuming to eat. Fresh seeds are delicious on salads or garnish for soups and sauces. They are, of course, great as a snack.
Pomegranate Seeds Uses in Recipes
Pomegranate seeds can be baked into muffins and bread. Pomegranate seeds are commonly eaten straight from the fruit, making a delightful addition to various baked foods.
See some delectable dishes and recipes you can utilize pomegranate seeds in.
- Pomegranate Juice
- Chocolate Pomegranate Seeds
- Chocolate Chip Cookies with Pomegranate Seeds
- Healthy Pomegranate Smoothie
- Apple and Pomegranate Crisp
- Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate Seeds
- Chocolate Bark with Fresh Pomegranate Seeds
- Pomegranate Apple Bread
- Farro with Roasted Sweet Potato and Pomegranate Seeds
- Pindi Chole
- Barley with Pomegranate Seeds
- Roasted Butternut Squash With White Wine
- Pomegranate Jelly
- Lentils with Pomegranate Seeds
- Wild Rice with Pomegranate Seeds
Pomegranate Seeds Substitutes
Now that you have learned more about pomegranate seeds and sweet recipes, they can be used. It is about time I showed you some remarkable pomegranate seed substitutes for days you are in a pinch.
Red Currants
Red currants are a delicious substitute for pomegranate seeds, and you may use them in any dish if you can locate them. These tiny fruits resemble red currants in appearance, and few people will detect the difference in your meal.
The sour-sweet flavor of red currants is comparable to that of pomegranate seeds. They can be used in salads, smoothies, and other cuisines. You will not be disappointed because they lend a delicious flavor to any combination.
Whether red or black, the current is a wonderful source of vitamins. To retain all of the nutritional content of the red currant, it should be ripe and fresh. The fruit’s flavonoids and vitamin B content strengthen capillaries, protect bodily tissues, prevent diabetes, etc.
Cranberries
Cranberries are a terrific alternative to pomegranate seeds and are quite easy to come by. You can use either fresh or dried cranberries, and the result will be nearly identical.
If you can only find dried cranberries but need fresh ones, all you have to do is let them sit in warm water for about 15 minutes to restore their rich texture.
Since all health and nutrition experts highly recommend a diet rich in fruits and vegetables – cranberries are well recommended by me. Cranberries, in particular, have several health advantages as the fruit is a good source of antioxidants and vitamins.
Cranberries are a well-known superfruit, available in the shape of a sauce or juice, and can also be used in recipes for stuffing, casseroles, and desserts. Plus, these nutrient-dense berries are also a Thanksgiving feast favorite.
Pomegranate Syrup
Pomegranate syrup can also be used to substitute for pomegranate seeds because the flavor is comparable.
Pomegranate syrup is a beverage made from pomegranates. As a result, it will lack the texture that the seeds provide. In your recipe, however, you will get pomegranate flavor.
This syrup can be used to replace pomegranate seeds in a variety of dishes, from salad dressings to smoothies and other sweet drinks. It’s also a terrific addition to many side sauces because it has the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it true that pomegranates induce gas?
Fruits including berries, pomegranates, kumquats, guava, kiwi, nectarines, and papaya are high in fiber. If you don’t generally consume a fiber-rich diet, gradually increase your fiber intake to avoid being gassy after eating these fruits.
What are some of the health advantages of pomegranate seeds?
Pomegranates are high in antioxidants and flavonoids, which are proven to protect your cells from free radical damage. Moreover, they have been shown in several studies to have the potential to prevent prostate, breast, lung, and colon cancers.
Is it safe to store pomegranate seeds in the freezer?
The seeds from pomegranates can be frozen for later use. To freeze pomegranate seeds, you should spread them out on a baking sheet lined with wax paper in a single layer. Freeze for no more than 2 hours before transferring to a moisture-proof, vapor-proof freezer bag or container for storage. Then return the frozen food to the freezer and use it within a year.
Conclusion
Pomegranate seeds can be used in various meals, from smoothies to desserts, to provide nutrition and flavor. You might think it is impossible to swap this ingredient and that you will have to abandon your recipe entirely.
There are several pomegranate seed alternatives available. You might be surprised at how delicious they are in your dish.
You can use any common pomegranate seed substitutes listed in this article.
