Also known as
Anardana powder

Description
Pomegranate powder is nothing but sun-dried and ground seeds of the pomegranate fruit. While both the seeds and the powder are readily available in stores, pomegranate powder can even be made at home. To achieve this, first skin a fresh pomegranate and sun-dry the arils for five to six days. Once dried, the seeds should be collected and ground in a mixer.

How to select
• If buying readymade powder, check the seal of the package, the manufacturing and expiry date to ensure freshness. Feel the packet for lumps, which is a sign of moisture and potential spoilage.
• If making at home, choose fresh pomegranates for the purpose. Ensure it does not have black spots and that the skin is smooth and not cracked.

Culinary Uses
• Pomegranate powder is added to curries, lentils and vegetable dishes to give it a tangy taste.
• It is added to north Indian dishes like Chole and Tadka Dal.
• Pomegranate powder can be used to flavour soups and stews.
• It is also used to flavour biryanis and kebabs.
• You can even try substituting it for tamarind and aamchur while making sambhar and gravies.

Health Benefits
• Pomegranate powder is said to relieve heart burns and nausea.