Food Ticket: eat your way to Peru with the pomegranate

Also known scientifically as punica granatum, the pomegranate is one of Peru's proud exports. Pomegranate is categorised as a berry – and the seeds are where the money is. These tiny, tangy jewels nestled inside are called ariels, and full of flavour and nutritious value. Loaded with important nutrients, the pomegranate is characterised as being high in antioxidants, and not to mention, it's delicious as well. 

The seeds of the pomegranate can be enjoyed in a few ways –as a fruity and textural addition to a salad, a topper for a yoghurt parfait, stirred into grains like quinoa and farro, squeezed into a fresh juice, or simply eaten au naturale. Pomegranate has also made its way into cocktails and onto bar shelves in the form of liqueurs, as well as into mainstream skincare since the natural antimicrobials from Vitamin C help to fight bacteria on the skin.

Pomegranates are in season from February to June, so now is the best time to get your hands on these seedy little guys. While exploring the colourful markets of Peru may not be possible right now, Peru exports pomegranate to Singapore along with a long list of other countries, and can be found at local grocery chains across the city including Yaya Papaya, So Fruit, Open Taste, Minimarket Singapore, Momobud, Lazada, and Fruitsteps. Supply can vary so be sure to stock up when you see it at your favourite retailer.

Eat your way to Peru as we celebrate a different Peruvian superfood every month in our Food Ticket series. In addition, stay tuned as we take our cameras into the kitchens of some of the city's best restaurants to cook up a superfood storm. Head to Superfoods Peru for more info, and check out the office of Promperu page, which posts regular updates about where you can find your favourite Peruvian superfoods locally!