Fruit | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Fat

Pomegranate Aril

Punica granatum Allergen-Free
Pomegranate Aril

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Lythraceae
  • Primary Cuisine Middle Eastern
  • Seasonality Fall to Winter (Sep-Feb)
  • Source Pomegranate fruit

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

The edible, jewel-like seeds of a pomegranate, each containing a juicy, tart-sweet pulp surrounding a tiny seed.

Sensory Profile

TasteTart, Sweet, Juicy
TextureJuicy, Crunchy (seed)
AromaFruity, Tart
AcidityMedium-High

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 87 g (1/2 cup)
Calories83 kcal
Total Fat1.2 g
Saturated Fat0.1 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.7 g
Total Carbohydrate19 g
Dietary Fiber4 g
Total Sugars14 g
Calcium10 mg
Iron0.3 mg
Potassium236 mg

Chef’s Secret

To easily extract arils, score the pomegranate around its equator, then submerge in water and break apart; the arils will sink.

Substitutions

Best Match

Cranberries (fresh or dried)

1:1

Similar tartness and burst of flavor, different texture.

Red Currants

1:1

Small, tart, juicy berries, provide a similar pop in salads.

Raspberries

1:1

Softer texture, similar tart-sweet profile, good for desserts.

Grapes (red, halved)

1:1

Juicy and sweet, lacks the tartness and crunch of the aril.

Buying Guide

Choose pomegranates that are heavy for their size and have smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid soft spots.

Flavor Pairings

Salads yogurt oatmeal cocktails Middle Eastern dishes lamb chicken chocolate.