Pomegranates are a delicious and nutritious superfruit, bursting with juicy ruby-red seeds called arils. But picking the perfect pomegranate can be tricky if you don’t know what signs to look for. Nobody wants to crack open a fruit only to find it sour, dry, or unripe! So, how do you know a pomegranate is ripe? Let’s dive into the top tips and tricks to help you select the best pomegranate every time.
1. Look for Deep, Rich Color
A ripe pomegranate usually has a vibrant, deep red color. If you’re picking from a tree, avoid fruits with any green patches—they’re not ready yet. At the store, most pomegranates will already be fairly red, but the richest, darkest reds often indicate the juiciest fruit inside. Keep in mind, the color can vary slightly by variety, but generally, the deeper the red, the better.
2. Check the Shape: Flat and Squared Is Good
Unlike many fruits that are perfectly round when ripe, pomegranates take on a slightly flattened or squared shape as they mature. The blossom end (bottom) and stem end (top) will look a bit flat rather than perfectly spherical. If the fruit looks too round and smooth, it might still be unripe.
3. Feel the Weight: Heavier Means Juicier
Weight is one of the easiest and most reliable indicators of ripeness. A ripe pomegranate will feel heavy for its size because it’s full of juicy arils. When you pick up a pomegranate, compare it to others of similar size—the heavier one is usually the juicier, riper choice. Don’t hesitate to use the grocery store scale to weigh your options.
4. Examine the Skin Texture: Leathery and Slightly Cracked Is a Good Sign
The skin of a ripe pomegranate is firm but has a leathery texture. It may even have small cracks or splits, which is a great sign that the fruit is bursting with juice inside. Don’t be scared off by these cracks—they mean the fruit is ripe and ready to eat. Smooth, shiny skin often means the fruit is still immature and the seeds inside might taste sour or bitter.
5. Perform the Fingernail Test
If you’re unsure about the skin, try scratching it lightly with your fingernail. A ripe pomegranate’s skin will resist scratching and feel tough. If the skin is too soft or easy to scratch, it might not be ripe yet.
6. Listen for the Sound: Dense or Hollow?
Tapping a pomegranate can also help you determine ripeness. A ripe pomegranate sounds dense and solid when you tap it, while an unripe one sounds hollow. This test is especially useful if you’re picking fruit directly from the tree.
Should a Pomegranate Be Hard or Soft?
A ripe pomegranate is firm and plump, not soft or squishy. Even if the skin looks a bit leathery or cracked, the fruit inside should feel solid and heavy. Avoid pomegranates that feel soft or have mushy spots, as these may be overripe or spoiled.
How to Store Your Ripe Pomegranates
Once you’ve picked the perfect pomegranate, proper storage will keep it fresh and tasty:
– Whole pomegranates can be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic bag for up to three months.
– If you plan to eat them within a few days, keeping them on the counter away from direct sunlight works fine.
– After you’ve removed the arils, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Bonus Tips for Enjoying Your Pomegranate
Now that you’ve got your ripe pomegranate, here are some ideas to make the most of those juicy seeds:
– Sprinkle arils over salads for a burst of color and flavor.
– Add them to yogurt or oatmeal for a nutritious breakfast.
– Use pomegranate juice or molasses in marinades and glazes, such as for lamb chops.
– Mix arils into cocktails or mocktails for a festive touch.
Choosing a ripe pomegranate is all about observing color, shape, weight, texture, and sound. With these simple tips, you’ll never be disappointed by your pomegranate purchases again. Happy picking!