Pomegranates are one of the most underrated fruits.
People often think they’re too tart or sour, but that’s not always the case.
Pomegranates can be quite sweet and delicious – especially when paired with the right foods.
These ruby-red fruits are lovely to look at, but they’re also packed with nutrients.
Pomegranate is a great option if you’re looking for a unique fruit to add to your recipes.
Here are some ideas on how to use pomegranate in your cooking:
- Add pomegranate seeds to salads for a pop of color and flavor.
- Use pomegranate juice as a marinade for grilled meats.
- Make a pomegranate reduction to top off roasted vegetables.
- Add pomegranate arils to yogurt or oatmeal for a nutritious breakfast.
- Use pomegranate juice in cocktails or mocktails for a festive twist.
If you’re looking for something to add a touch of tartness and sweetness to your dish, pomegranate is the fruit for you.
Unfortunately, they can be hard to find and expensive when you do.
Luckily, there are plenty of substitutes that will give your food the same delicious flavor.
Check out these five substitutes for pomegranate.
What is Pomegranate?

Pomegranate is the name given to fruit and the tree that bears it.
The pomegranate tree is native to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide and cultivated since ancient times.
The fruit is round or oval and has tough, leathery skin.
Inside the fruit are hundreds of small seeds, each surrounded by juicy, red, or pink flesh.
In terms of taste, pomegranates are tart and tangy, with a sweetness that can vary depending on the variety.
The seeds also have a crunchy texture, making them enjoyable to eat.
In recent years, pomegranates have become more popular in other parts of the world as people have become more aware of their health benefits.
Pomegranates are a good source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
They have been linked to various health benefits, including better heart health, stronger bones, and improved brain function.
Pomegranate seeds are often used in salads, desserts, and other dishes.
The fruit juice can also make wine, vinegar, and syrup.
In addition to being eaten fresh, pomegranates are also used in traditional medicines and cosmetics.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Pomegranate
For those who can’t find pomegranates or don’t have access to them, there are a few good substitutes that can be used in their place.
1. Cranberries

Cranberries are a small, tart fruit often used in holiday dishes.
Cranberries are native to North America, and they have been cultivated for centuries by the region’s indigenous people.
The Pilgrims also brought cranberries when they settled in the New World.
Cranberries are an important crop in many parts of the United States, and they are also grown commercially in other countries, such as Chile and Argentina.
Cranberries are a versatile fruit, and they can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from sauces and pies to jams and juices.
Cranberries are also a good source of Vitamin C, and they have been shown to have numerous health benefits.
In recent years, cranberries have become popular as a superfood, and they are often touted for their ability to prevent urinary tract infections and improve heart health.
While cranberries are not an exact replacement for pomegranates, they can be used in many of the same dishes.
Cranberries have a similar tartness to pomegranates, and they can be used as a garnish or added to a fruit salad.
Cranberries can also be used to make the sauce, and they make a great addition to holiday recipes.
2. Raspberries

Raspberries are a type of fruit that most people know and love.
They are small, red, and have a distinctively sweet taste.
Many people don’t know about raspberries because they are a member of the rose family.
The raspberry plant is similar to a rose bush, with thorny stems and large leaves.
Raspberries are native to Europe and Asia, but they can now be found worldwide.
They are usually harvested in the summertime, but some varieties can be found year-round.
Raspberries are a versatile fruit used in pies, jams, and even wine.
There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to substituting pomegranate for raspberries.
First, raspberries are much smaller than pomegranates, so you need to use more of them to get the same effect.
Second, raspberries are not as tart as pomegranates, so you may want to add a little lemon juice or vinegar to balance out the sweetness.
Finally, raspberries are very delicate and can easily be crushed, so handle them carefully.
3. Blackberries

Blackberries are a type of fruit often eaten raw, used in pies or jams, or made into wine.
The blackberry plant is a member of the rose family, and its fruits are classified as aggregate fruits, which means that each berry is composed of many smaller drupelets.
Blackberries are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa, but they can now be found worldwide.
In some regions, blackberries are considered to be an invasive species.
Blackberries are a good source of vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.
They have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Blackberries can be enjoyed fresh or cooked, and they make a delicious addition to any number of dishes.
When it comes to choosing a substitute for pomegranate, blackberries are a great option.
Blackberries have a similar tart and tangy flavor to pomegranate, making them a perfect stand-in for this fruit in any recipe.
Additionally, blackberries can be used in sweet and savory dishes, making them even more versatile.
Just keep an eye on your portion size, as blackberries are high in sugar.
4. Dried Barberries

Dried barberries are the perfect addition to your pantry.
Not only do they add a pop of color to your dishes, but their tart flavor is a great way to liven up any recipe.
And because they’re so easy to store, you can always have them on hand for when the mood strikes.
Hydrate in water for about 15 minutes and then add them to your dish.
They’ll add a lovely touch of sweetness and acidity to make your meal sing.
Compared to other dried fruits, barberries have a relatively short shelf life.
But if you store them properly in an airtight container, they can last up to a year.
Just check on them periodically to make sure they’re not getting too wrinkled.
When they lose their plumpness, it’s time to toss them out.
When substituting for pomegranate, use a similar amount of dried barberries.
You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, but overall, they should work well in most recipes.
5. Red Currants

If you’re looking for a delicious summer fruit that’s also good for you, look no further than the red currant.
This ruby-red berry is a tasty treat, but it’s also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Redcurrants are an excellent source of Vitamin C, providing over 40% of your daily needs in just one cup.
They also contain dietary fiber, potassium, and magnesium.
What’s more, redcurrants are low in calories and have a very low glycemic index, making them a great choice for those watching their weight.
When it comes to flavor, both currants and pomegranate have a similar taste and can be used in many dishes.
In addition, they are usually less expensive than pomegranates and are easier to eat since they do not have seeds.
However, there are a few things to consider when substituting red currants for pomegranates.
First, redcurrants are much smaller than pomegranates and will not provide the same visual impact in dishes.
Second, they have a slightly sour flavor that may not be to everyone’s liking.
Conclusion
Pomegranate is a fruit that is popular for its nutritional value and flavor.
It is high in antioxidants and vitamins and linked to various health benefits.
However, pomegranate can be difficult to find in stores, which can be pricey.
As a result, many people look for substitutes.
While many options are available, not all of them are created equal.
Some substitutes lack the nutritional value of pomegranate, while others don’t taste as good.
When choosing a substitute, it is important to consider your goals.
If you are looking for a fruit with a similar flavor, cranberries or raspberries might be better.
No matter your goal, there is sure to be a pomegranate substitute that meets your needs.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Pomegranate

Ingredients
- Cranberries
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- Dried Barberries
- Red Currants
Instructions
- Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
- Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.