Substitute for pomegranate seeds

Do you love pomegranate seeds but don’t have the time to prepare them? Are you looking for a substitute for pomegranate seeds? Do you want to know what dishes can you prepare with these substitutes? If yes, then we’ve got you covered. 

In this blog post, we will discuss a few different substitutes that you can use in place of pomegranate seeds. Each of these substitutes has its own unique flavor and texture, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. 

What Are Pomegranate Seeds?

Pomegranate seeds are the edible seeds found inside a pomegranate. Each seed is surrounded by a red, juicy flesh that is also edible. Pomegranate seeds have a slightly tart and sweet flavor that is similar to cranberries. 

They can be eaten fresh or dried, and are often used as a garnish or an ingredient in salads, yogurt, and smoothies.

They are a good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. They have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help to lower blood pressure.

What Do Pomegranate Seeds Taste Like?

Pomegranate seeds have a unique flavor that is both sweet and tart. The seeds are encased in a juicy flesh, and the combination of the two gives pomegranate seeds their characteristic taste. Some people compare the taste of pomegranate seeds to a cross between cranberries and cherries. 

Others say that they taste like a mix of red grapes and raspberries. No matter how you describe it, the taste of pomegranate seeds is sure to please.

In addition to their delicious flavor, pomegranate seeds are also a good source of vitamins and antioxidants. So next time you are looking for a tasty treat, be sure to give pomegranate seeds a try.

Best substitute for pomegranate seeds

Pomegranate seeds are a versatile ingredient that can add a pop of color and flavor to a wide variety of dishes. Unfortunately, they can be difficult to come by, and they can be pricey. If you find yourself in a pinch, there are several good substitutes that will work in a pinch. 

list of substitutes:

• Raspberries
• Cherries
• Figs
• Cranberries
• Red Currants
• Raisins
• Blueberries
• Blackberries
• Dried Apricots
• Dried Nuts
• Dried barberries
• Pomegranate Syrup

• One option is to use cranberries. Cranberries are tart and bright red, like pomegranate seeds, and they will add a similar burst of flavor to your dish. 
• Another option is to use diced red grapes. Grapes are slightly sweeter than pomegranate seeds, but they will still provide the same visual appeal. 
• Furthermore, you could also use chopped dried cherries. Dried cherries are plump and juicy, and their deep red color will complement any dish. 

Whichever substitution you choose, your dish is sure to be delicious. Let’s discuss some substitute for pomegranate seeds in detail now. 

Raspberries

Althoght, there is no perfect substitution for pomegranate seeds, raspberries can work in a pinch. Some things to consider:

• Raspberries are not as tart as pomegranate seeds, so you may need to add more honey or another sweetener.
• Raspberries are smaller and rounder than pomegranate seeds, so they will not look as uniform in your dish.
• Pomegranate seeds have a slight crunchy texture, while raspberries are softer.

Cherries

Cherries can be used as a substitute for pomegranate seeds in most recipes, though the flavor will be slightly different. Cherries are tart and acidic where pomegranate seeds are sweet and slightly astringent. 

If you’re using cherries as a substitute in a dish that already has sweetness, such as a smoothie or yogurt bowl, you may want to reduce the amount of sweetener you use. Alternatively, if you’re using cherries as a tart contrast to something sweet, you may want to increase the amount of sweetener in your recipe.

Figs

To substitute for pomegranate seeds in a recipe, use figs that have been quartered. Depending on the recipe, you may want to remove the skin from the figs before using them. Figs have a mild sweetness and a slightly tart flavor that will complement most dishes.

Cranberries

Cranberries can be a good substitute for pomegranate seeds in some dishes, but there are a few things to keep in mind. 

• First, cranberries are smaller than pomegranate seeds, so you’ll need to use more of them to get the same effect.
• Second, cranberries can be a bit more fibrous than pomegranate seeds, so you may need to strain them if you’re using them in a drink or sauce.

Red Currants

To substitute red currants for pomegranate seeds in a recipe, start by removing the white membrane and seeds from the red currants. Then, chop the red currants into small pieces. Finally, stir the chopped red currants into the recipe as you would pomegranate seeds. 

Raisins

Raisins can be used as a substitute for pomegranate seeds in recipes, but they will not provide the same texture or flavor.

Raisins are a dried fruit that have been treated with sulfur dioxide, which gives them their dark color. Pomegranate seeds are not treated with sulfur dioxide and have a light pink color. Raisins are also sweeter than pomegranate seeds.

Blueberries

Pomegranate seeds are a great source of antioxidants, but if you can’t find them or don’t want to pay the price, blueberries make a good substitution. Blueberries are also a good source of antioxidants, as well as vitamins C and K. 

They have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. So whether you’re using them as a substitute for pomegranate seeds or just adding them to your diet for their health benefits, blueberries are definitely worth including in your menu.

Blackberries

Blackberries can be substituted for pomegranate seeds in most recipes, but note that blackberries are a bit juicier than pomegranates.

Start by quartering the blackberries and removing the stem. Then use a fork to gently press on each berry to release the juice and seeds. Discard any excess juice and seeds, or save them for another recipe. 

Dried Apricots

One way to substitute dried apricots for pomegranate seeds is to soak them in water for about 15 minutes, then drain and chop them. You can then use them as a topping on oatmeal, yogurt, or salads. Another option is to blend them into a smoothie.

Dried Nuts

To get the most out of your dried nuts after using them as a substitute for pomegranate seeds, soak them in water overnight to rehydrate them and bring out their flavor. You can then use them in salads, cereal, trail mix, or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.

Dried barberries

If you’re looking to replicate the taste of pomegranate seeds exactly, you might want to try using a combination of dried barberries and pomegranate arils (the fleshy outer part of the pomegranate fruit).

Pomegranate Syrup

Pomegranate syrup is a great way to add the delicious flavor of pomegranates to your food without having to deal with the hassle of extracting the seeds. To substitute for pomegranate seeds, use 1/4 cup of pomegranate syrup diluted in 1/4 cup water. 

You can also add a few drops of red food coloring to the mixture to give it a more vibrant color. You can find pomegranate syrup at most grocery stores or online. Just be sure to look for a brand that uses all-natural ingredients with no added sugar or artificial flavors. 

Can You Leave Pomegranate Seeds Out?

Pomegranate seeds are fairly resistant to spoilage. They can last for several weeks if left out on the countertop and even longer if stored in a cool, dry place.

However, over time, the quality of the seeds will degrade. They may become shriveled and leathery and lose their flavor and nutritional value.

Exposure to air also affects the quality of pomegranate seeds. When left exposed to oxygen, the bright red color of the seeds will start to fade.

Additionally, the seeds may become tough and chewy. If you want to maximize the shelf life of your pomegranate seeds, it’s best to store them in an airtight container.

How long do pomegranate seeds last once they are opened? 

Once a pomegranate is opened, the seeds will last for about 2-3 days in the fridge or 1-2 weeks in the freezer. If you want them to last longer, you can dry them out. Place the seeds on a paper towel and blot dry.

Then spread them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 200 degrees F for about 45 minutes. Once they are dry, store the seeds in an airtight container in the pantry. 

How to freeze some pomegranate seeds for later? 

A great way to save money and enjoy pomegranate seeds year-round is to freeze them. Freezing pomegranate seeds is quick and easy, and it preserves their freshness for months.

To freeze pomegranate seeds, simply spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer. 

Once frozen, transfer the seeds to an airtight container or resealable bag. When you’re ready to use them, thaw the seeds at room temperature or add them directly to your recipe (they will thaw quickly during cooking). 

FAQs

Pomegranate seeds are a delicious and healthy way to add a pop of flavor and color to any dish. Unfortunately, they can be a bit pricey to purchase fresh.

Now you know what is the substitute for pomegranate seeds, let’s move toward some most frequently asked questions about them,

What fruit can replace pomegranate?

Replacing pomegranate can be a little tricky, as the tartness and sweetness of the fruit make it a unique ingredient. However, some good substitutes include cranberry, cherry, or grapefruit. These fruits are all tart and sweet with a touch of acidity that can balance out flavors in dishes.

What can I replace pomegranate within a salad?

Pomegranate is a beautiful and tart addition to any green salad, but if you’re looking for something to replace it, try cranberries.

They have a similarly tart flavor and beautiful color that will make your salad stand out. Plus, they’re packed with antioxidants and nutrients that are good for you. 

How many calories are in a pomegranate?

There are about 130 calories in a pomegranate. They’re also a good source of fiber and vitamin C. Nutritionally, they’re similar to other berries.

Which is better, pomegranate seeds or juice?

Pomegranate juice is better. Pomegranate juice has been shown to have anticancer effects, including reducing the growth of prostate cancer cells. It’s also been shown to improve heart health by reducing bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol, and may also help reduce blood pressure.

And finally, pomegranate juice is a good source of antioxidants.

Should you spit out pomegranate seeds?

The truth is that pomegranate seeds can be eaten but only if they’re properly cleaned first. Many people find it difficult to remove all of the seeds from the fruit’s skin, so it’s generally recommended that you spit them out instead.

Can I use maple syrup instead of pomegranate molasses?

Maple syrup and pomegranate molasses are two completely different products. Molasses is a thick, dark syrup that is made from the sugarcane plant. It is loaded with minerals like potassium, magnesium, and zinc.

Pomegranate molasses, on the other hand, is made from the juice of pomegranates. It has a tart-sweet flavor and is used to add acidity and sweetness to dishes.

Since they have different flavors and purposes, it’s not recommended that you use maple syrup in place of pomegranate molasses in recipes. If you’re looking for a product that has a similar flavor profile to pomegranate molasses, try using balsamic vinegar or raspberry.  

Final Words

After reading this article, you should have a better understanding of different substitute of pomegranate seeds. While there are many options available, make sure to pick one that best fits your needs. With so many different flavors and textures out there, it’s important to find the right fit for you. 

Some of the most popular substitutes include cranberries, raspberries, and cherries. If you are looking for a lesser-known substitute, consider using red currants or black mulberries.

Have you ever tried substituting pomegranate seeds before? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments below! 

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