A Recipe For Pomegranate Molasses And What to Make with It - California Grown (2024)

Pomegranate molasses is a thick, syrupy reduction made from pomegranate juice. It is a versatile ingredient that adds a unique sweet and tangy flavor to all types of dishes. Its vibrant color and rich taste make it a favorite in both sweet and savory recipes. From marinades and dressings to desserts and drinks, you’ll always want to keep this ingredient on hand.

California Pomegranates: The Crown Jewel of the Golden State

The Central Valley is the agricultural powerhouse of California and the heart of pomegranate country. It’s where the majority of the nation’s pomegranates are cultivated​​. The region’s climate and soil conditions are ideal for growing these vibrant fruits, making California a leading producer of pomegranates.

Short and Sweet Seasonal Splendor

Pomegranate season in California is relatively brief but bountiful, typically spanning from September to December​​. During this period, fresh pomegranates and their arils (the juicy, ruby-red seeds) are widely available, while pomegranate juice remains a staple that is available year-round.

How to Make Pomegranate Molasses at Home

Making pomegranate molasses is simpler than you might think. All you need is pomegranate juice, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmering these ingredients together creates a thick, flavorful syrup that you’ll be using in your recipes again and again. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Gather fresh pomegranate juice, sugar, and a bit of lemon juice.
2. Combine the ingredients in a saucepan and simmer until the mixture reduces to a syrupy consistency.
3. Let the molasses cool, then transfer to a glass container with a tight-fitting lid. Now it’s ready to use or store.

What to Make with Pomegranate Molasses

1. Savory Dishes with Pomegranate Molasses: Pomegranate molasses can elevate numerous savory dishes. It works wonderfully as a marinade for meats, adds a tangy twist to salad dressings, and can be used as a glaze for roasted vegetables.
2. Sweet Treats with Pomegranate Molasses: In sweet dishes, pomegranate molasses adds depth and a hint of tartness. It’s excellent in fruit salads, drizzled over desserts like cheesecake or ice cream, and can be incorporated into baked goods for an unexpected flavor twist.
3. Refreshing Beverages with Pomegranate Molasses: Add a splash of pomegranate molasses to your co*cktails or mocktails for a unique, tangy flavor. It pairs exceptionally well with sparkling water for a refreshing mocktail too.

Understanding California Pomegranates

Exploring the Pomegranate’s Hidden Treasures: A Deep Dive into Its Anatomy

Pomegranates have a hard outer shell with many arils inside. These arils contain both the seed and the juice, and it’s this juicy part that is most commonly used in cooking and juice production​​.

Versatility in the Kitchen

Pomegranates are incredibly versatile. They can be used whole, juiced, or turned into molasses. Pomegranates can be used many ways, from adding a fresh twist to tacos, enhancing co*cktails, or as a key ingredient in delicious desserts​​.

We’d love to hear how you use pomegranate molasses in your kitchen. Share your favorite recipes and ideas with us by snapping a picture and tagging us on social media using #CAGROWN. For more inspiration, follow us on Pinterest for a treasure trove of California-grown recipes!

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Pomegranate Molasses Roasted Duck

With every bite of Vy Tran of Beyond Sweet & Savory’s pomegranate-glazed roasted duck, you get succulent, tender, and flavorful meat that will make you want to reach for more.