1large pomegranate, that has firm skin that has a slight give and is heavy for its size
Instructions
Slice off the stubby end of the pomegranate, about ¼-1/2", just enough to expose the inside.
Score the skin of the pomegranate all the way around, going no deeper than about ¼" into the skin. Repeat the scoring once or twice more around the pomegranate at different angles.
Use your fingers to gently pry open the pomegranate along the scored cuts so that you have smaller sections that are easy to handle.
Take one section of pomegranate and bend the skin back. Arils will start popping out by themselves.
For arils that are still attached to the skin, gently push against them with your thumb or forefinger to pry them out. Gently peel away the papery white layers to expose more arils underneath.
Continue with all pomegranate sections until all the arils have been removed.
Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge in a sealed container for up to a week.
Notes
I usually choose the biggest pomegranate I can find in the bunch so I can get the most arils for the buck!
Choose pomegranates with a firm skin that has a bit of yield when gently pushed.
When opening the pomegranate, work over a large cutting board or large bowl so you don't lose arils onto the floor or counter.
Work slowly and gently so as not to pop the arils and get a juicy mess.
I love eating as they are, cold from the fridge, or using them to top some plain Greek yogurt or salads!