How to Dry Pomegranates

Whether as a visual reminder of all they symbolize, or just because they’re so darn purty, dried pomegranates are a wonderful addition to a fall arrangement or centerpiece. You can dry them yourself for a fraction of the cost, and it’s easy to do.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Fresh pomegranates (choose nice ones, with no visible bruises or cuts)

Toothpick or other sharp implement

Wire rack

Decorating materials such as metallic paints, glitter, glue, etc. (optional)

Instructions:

Use the toothpick to puncture the rind of each pomegranate several times. It will look better if you do this in rows—either vertically or horizontally, rather than randomly. Also, be sure to leave plenty of space between the punctures, otherwise the skin may split as it dries. Just poke the toothpick in deep enough to break through the skin. You do not want to puncture it so deeply that the juice begins to leak out as that will actually delay the drying process.

Place the pomegranates on a wire rack to dry. It will take about three weeks for the pomegranates to dry (perhaps a little more or less, depending on the humidity where you live). Here in Tucson, it takes about an hour. (Jussst kidding!) When they are dry, they will be very light and considerably smaller (about 1/3 their original size). They are also very fragile, so handle with care!
The dried pomegranates can be used in their natural state, or you can use your creativity to decorate them with metallic paint, glitter, or whatever you like.
Create an arrangement using your new treasures. The dried pomegranates are beautiful alone, or mixed with greenery, nuts, or other dried items. Put them in glass containers, bowls, or add them to wreaths. Go wherever your creativity takes you!

Pomegranates for Peace