Eat this fruit to boost heart health, fight inflammation and help with arthritis
I’m writing this after feasting on a Joojeh Kabob, a Persian form of a chicken kebab that is delicious.
I was driven on a quest to find Persian food after my North Grove book club read The Lion Women of Tehran. Luscious descriptions of food were scattered throughout the book and at times I had difficulty concentrating on the content because I was salivating over the dishes.
Persian food is described as having complex flavors that balance, savory, sweet and sour. Dried fruits, pomegranates and pistachios are often added. And Persian foods are rich in spices that provide flavor, color and anti-inflammatory elements.
My Joojeh Kabob had turmeric and cardamom, which are both anti-inflammatory. The feeling of all those spices is described as warmth without the heat that could be irritating for some.
Pomegranates, which are now in season, are an important part of Persian and Middle Eastern cuisine.
There is a significant body of research indicating that pomegranates boost heart health. Other studies reveal that the diverse and rich phytochemical content of pomegranates decreases inflammation and thickening of the artery walls. And they help people with arthritis.
Other studies have shown pomegranate juice or concentrate can slow the growth of certain types of cancer. Areas that need more research are the benefits of pomegranate on fertility and erectile dysfunction.
For a pomegranate beginner, it might seem overwhelming to open the fruit to collect the arils.
Luckily, you can buy a cup of the arils in the produce department. These can be added to a salad, a fruit bowl or a cooked vegetable like green beans.
If you want to turn a simple cauliflower dish to spectacular try this recipe with pomegranate and tahini. I’m making it this weekend.: https://www.cherryonmysundae.com/2024/01/charred-cauliflower-with-pomegranate-tahini-sauce.html
Another route for pomegranate goodness is with pomegranate molasses. You can buy it or make your own. The amount of sugar in the commercial version varies. Look for the lowest.
For all the ways to use this rich red ingredient go to: https://www.thekitchn.com/5-ways-to-use-pomegranate-molasses-ingredient-intelligence-202643
Sheah Rarback, MS, is a Dietitian nutritionist in private practice in Miami
