Pomegranate trick

(Photo: AP, Rafiq Maqbool)

Ever find it difficult to get the seeds out of a pomegranate without making a mess and taking forever?

Try this simple solution: Just fill a large bowl with water, cut the pomegranate in quarters and submerge the entire pomegranate in the water. (If you need to reserve any juice for a recipe, remember to squeeze it out before submerging the pomegranate.)

Use your thumbs to loosen the seeds from the membrane. Some pith will float to the top, and the seeds will sink. Skim off the membrane and pith. Pour everything else through a colander, draining out the juice and water. You will be left with just the seeds.

They can be eaten immediately or stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to four days. If this technique is still too much trouble, some stores sell pomegranate seeds already removed from the fruit.