THE FRUIT OF PARADISE

“Pomegranate is a fruit of paradise. There is one seed from Paradise in every pomegranate growing on the earth.”

Imam Ali Raza

Pomegranate is often referred to as the fruit of paradise. In ancient times, it was believed that pomegranate supports the body and awakens true love in the soul. Scientists have proven that this exotic delicacy strengthens immune system and fights many diseases.

Pomegranate is grown in the Mediterranean, South America, northern Africa, southern Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East.  The tree can live for up to 100-200 years, and it doesn’t bloom if there is a small amount of sunlight. Pomegranate fruits are dark red and sometimes yellow in color. They are usually about 9-18 cm in diameter. The fruits contain many small seeds surrounded by a very juicy, sour sweet flesh of deep red color. The number of seeds depends on the diameter of the fruit and usually ranges from 400 to 900.

Pomegranate contains many vitamins, minerals and microelements that are necessary for the normal functioning of the body. The four main vitamins that make part of pomegranate are vitamins C, P, B6 and B12. In addition, pomegranate is rich in acids, fiber and tannins.

Fresh pomegranate juice has a sweet and sour flavor with astringent notes. Pomegranate juice contains 15 varieties of amino acids, which makes it one of the most useful and rich sources of amino acids for humans.

Interesting facts about pomegranate

• Pomegranate juice is more useful than apple, orange and pineapple juices.
• One pomegranate contains about 40% of the required daily dose of vitamins.
• In Greek mythology, pomegranate was the food of the gods. Its image was also found on the Egyptian pyramids.
• Pomegranate contains more antioxidants than green tea.

Pomegranate Smoothie Recipe

What you need:

• 2 cups of nonfat yogurt
• 2 sliced bananas
• 2 cups of pomegranate juice
• 1-3 tbsp of pomegranate seeds

Put all the ingredients in a blender and puree them until the mixture becomes homogeneous. Garnish your smoothie with pomegranate seeds. Enjoy this wonderful drink!