Pomegranates are considered to be one of the oldest fruits in the world.  Some even speculate that it could have been the fruit that tempted Adam & Even in the garden of Eden. Believed to have originated in the area of Iran and the Himalayas, they spread throughout the mideast, Mediterranean, Europe and as far east as China as early as pre-Christian times.   The were eventually brought to the new world with the Spanish Conquistadors.  Missionaries then spread pomegranates from central America and Mexico to the missions of California.

What’s in a Name?

The Romans were introduced to Pomegranates by way of Carthage which was an early area of pomegranate cultivation in the Mediterranean.  The Roman name for the fruit was “Punicum Malum” or “Carthage Apple”.  When Swedish Botanist Carolus Linnaeus created his taxonomy system for classifying plants, he called bestowed upon it the scientific name “Punica Granatum” in reference to Carthage as well as the many seeds or “grains” that it contains.   After the Moors invaded Spain they introduced Pomegranates as one of their many contributions and the city of Granada Spain was named after the fruit.  The French later needed a name for a new semi-spherical weapon which was easily held in the hand and inflicted damage by exploding and scattering the many small pieces that were contained inside.  They called it a “grenade” and the special troops that used these were “grenadiers”.  Of course, if you grew up drinking Shirley Temples then you’ve consumed Grenadine which was originally made from the sweetened juice of pomegranates.

Symbolism

The large number of seeds which make up the interior have led Pomegranates to be a symbol of fertility, rebirth, and eternal life in many cultures.  Egyptians included pomegranates in pyramids when burying their dead for the hope of rebirth.  When Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand re-took Spain from the Moors by gaining control of Granada, the last Moorish stronghold, it is said that Isabella raised a pomegranate and declared “Just like the pomegranate, I will take over Andalusia seed by seed”.

Usage

Today we now know that pomegranates are high in vitamin C and anti-oxidants.  The seeds are commonly eaten on their own out of hand.   They may also be included as an ingredient in stews as in the mid-east or a garnish for salads and entrees when scattered over the top of a dish.  Juicing is yet another option and while messy, does produce a deliciously tart/sweet juice that can be enjoyed on its own, turned into jelly as my dad does each year, or used in many other recipes.  Pomegranates are usually available September through January.