Can you blend pomegranate seeds in a Vitamix?
Introduction
Pomegranates are a nutritious fruit that have grown in popularity in recent years. Their jewel-like red seeds, known as arils, pack a tasty and tart punch. Pomegranate arils are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Some of the potential health benefits of pomegranate arils include improved heart health, anti-inflammatory effects, and cancer prevention.
While pomegranate arils are often eaten raw, many people enjoy using them in salads, desserts, juices, and smoothies. Blending pomegranate arils releases more of their nutrients and allows you to easily incorporate them into blended foods and drinks. This brings up the question – can you blend pomegranate seeds in a Vitamix?
About Vitamix Blenders
Vitamix is a popular high-powered blender brand that is frequently used to make smoothies, nut butters, soups, and more. Vitamix blenders have strong, sharp blades and powerful motors that can blend most fruits, vegetables, and seeds with ease.
Some key features of Vitamix blenders include:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
High-powered motor | Ranging from 2-5 peak horsepower, allowing fast and efficient blending |
Strong stainless steel blades | Sharp blades spin incredibly fast to pulverize ingredients |
Speed settings | Variable speed knob with high, medium and low settings |
Large BPA-free container | Wet and dry capacity of 64-ounces or more |
Hot blending | Special models have heating elements to blend hot soups and drinks |
Pre-programmed settings | Some models have auto settings for smoothies, hot soups, frozen desserts, etc. |
With their advanced blending technology and variable speed options, Vitamix blenders are designed to be able to handle blending most types of ingredients – including hard items like ice, coffee beans, and seeds.
Can Pomegranate Seeds Be Blended?
Pomegranate seeds have a juicy pulp surrounding a hard interior seed. When blended, the pulp gets broken down into a smooth liquid, while the tiny seed remnants also get pulverized by the blender.
Most high-powered blenders like Vitamix are capable of blending up pomegranate seeds when using an appropriate blending method. The two keys to successfully blending pomegranate seeds are:
1. Using a high speed setting – This provides the cutting power needed to break through the tough interior seed. Lower speeds may not fully pulverize the seeds.
2. Blending in liquid – Adding some water or juice helps pull the seeds towards the blades for even blending. The liquid also improves the texture of the final product.
While powerful blenders can pulverize pomegranate seeds, a fine strainer or sieve may be needed after blending to filter out any bits of remaining seed debris depending on the desired texture.
Vitamix Pomegranate Seed Blending Tips
Here are some tips for easily blending pomegranate seeds in a Vitamix:
Prepare the Pomegranate Seeds
– Cut the pomegranate in half and remove the arils from the rind and inner membranes. This makes it easier to measure out the amount needed for your recipe.
– Pick out any excess white pith, which can give a bitter taste.
– Rinse the arils. Pat dry to remove excess moisture before blending.
Use Liquid
– For smoothies, use juice, milk, yogurt or water as your blender liquid.
– For sauces and dressings, blend the seeds with oil, vinegar or juice.
– Use at least 1 cup of liquid for every 1 cup of seeds. Too little liquid can prevent adequate blending.
Start at High Speed
– Begin blending at the highest speed setting to fully break down the interior seed.
– Blend for 30-90 seconds before reducing to a lower speed.
Scrape Down the Sides
– Stop blending and scrape down the sides with a spatula if ingredients stick to the container walls.
– This redistributes everything evenly for consistent blending.
Strain if Needed
– For ultra-smooth results with no gritty seed particles, strain blended pomegranate through a fine mesh sieve or nut milk bag.
– Press down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
– Compost the remaining seeds and fiber.
Best Vitamix Models for Pomegranate Seeds
While all Vitamix machines can blend pomegranate seeds, some are better equipped based on their power and settings:
Vitamix Model | Motor Power | Best Features for Pomegranate Seeds |
---|---|---|
Explorian E310 | 2 peak HP | Variable 10 speed dial, pulse function |
Explorian E320 | 2.2 peak HP | 10 variable speeds, pulse, 48 oz container |
5200 Standard | 2 peak HP | High/low switch, pulse function |
A2300 Ascent | 2.2 peak HP | Digital timer, variable speed, pulse option |
A3500 Ascent | 3.2 peak HP | Touchscreen, program settings, digital timer |
TurboBlend Two Speed | 3 peak HP | High/low speeds, impeller blade, 64 oz jar |
TurboBlend Four Speed | 3.2 peak HP | 4 pre-programmed cycles, pulse, 64 oz jar |
Pro 750 | 3.2 peak HP | 5 presets, 34 settings, commercial grade |
Models with higher horsepower like the A3500, TurboBlend and Pro 750 provide extra blending strength to thoroughly grind pomegranate seeds. The digital controls on the touchscreen models also let you easily adjust speeds and run specialized programs for smoothies, sauces and more.
Pomegranate Vitamix Recipes to Try
Here are some delicious ways to use blended pomegranate arils in Vitamix recipes:
Pomegranate Smoothie Bowl
Blend pomegranate seeds with Greek yogurt, milk, banana, spinach and honey. Top with fresh fruit, granola and coconut.
Pomegranate Salsa
Mix pomegranate seeds with tomatoes, onion, cilantro and lime juice for a unique salsa to top chicken, fish or chips.
Beet and Pomegranate Juice
For a nutrient-dense juice, blend pomegranate arils with beets, carrots and ginger. Strain if desired.
Pomegranate Sauce
Make a sweet and tangy sauce by blending seeds with balsamic vinegar and maple syrup to drizzle over meat or salads.
Pomegranate Sorbet
For a light dessert, blend pomegranate juice, seeds, honey and lemon juice. Freeze in an ice cream maker.
Pomegranate Guacamole
Add some seeds to your guacamole for extra flavor and nutrition. Blend with avocado, onion, lime juice and cilantro.
Tips for Buying Pomegranates
Follow these tips when selecting pomegranates for blending:
– Choose fruits that feel heavy for their size, which indicates plenty of juice and seeds.
– Avoid pomegranates with cracks, bruises or soft spots.
– Opt for bright red skins that look fresh, not brown.
– Pick fruits with a flower-shaped stem, meaning they were picked ripe from the tree.
– Farmers market or locally grown pomegranates can sometimes taste better than store-bought options.
– For convenience, choose pre-packaged pomegranate arils from the produce section.
Storing Pomegranates and Seeds
Keep whole pomegranates at room temperature for up to a week. Once cut open, store seeds:
– In an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days
– In a freezer-safe bag or tub for 6-8 months.
– Freeze spread out on a tray first, then transfer to a bag to prevent clumping.
Are There Any Risks from Blending Pomegranate Seeds?
There are minimal risks associated with consuming blended pomegranate seeds. Some important considerations include:
Sugar Content
Pomegranate seeds have natural fruit sugars. Consuming large amounts of blended seeds may be high in sugar for people with diabetes or weight concerns. Enjoy seeds in moderation.
Allergies
Those with pomegranate allergies should avoid ingesting seeds. Allergic reactions are rare but can cause symptoms like itching, swelling and anaphylaxis.
Medication Interactions
Pomegranate juice inhibits enzymes used to metabolize some medications broken down by the liver. Consult a doctor if taking prescription medications like blood thinners, antidepressants or blood pressure drugs.
Pregnancy Safety
Pomegranate seeds may induce uterine contractions. Pregnant women should limit intake and consult their physician before consuming large amounts.
As long as blended and consumed in reasonable amounts, pomegranate seeds and juices made from blending the seeds are considered safe for most people.
Conclusion
Thanks to their powerful motors and sharp blades, Vitamix blenders are fully capable of blending up hard pomegranate seeds when using the proper techniques. Adding liquid to the seeds, starting the blender at high speed, and scraping down the sides mid-blend all help ensure the seeds get fully pulverized. Many Vitamix models like the A3500 and Pro 750 also have presets and digital controls that make it easy to customize the perfect blend.
Blending pomegranate arils releases more of their antioxidant-rich nutrition and allows you to conveniently add them to smoothies, juices, sauces, salsas and more. While small bits of seed debris may remain after blending, a fine sieve or nut milk bag can help strain out any unwanted texture if desired. But with the right ratios and blending methods, pomegranate seeds can transform into a bright, tasty and nutritious ingredient when blended in a Vitamix.