Dried Pomegranate Peel — Cracked Pomegranate Rind for Tea & Cooking

Dried pomegranate peel: cracked, leathery pieces of the outer rind of fresh pomegranates, sliced and air-dried until brittle. The pieces are used two ways — slow-simmered into a tart herbal infusion, or crushed and added as a souring note in marinades and stews. The format is distinct from pomegranate molasses, fresh fruit, or pomegranate flower tea.

The peel pieces are deep red-brown on the outer side, lighter on the inner side, with the firm-but-snappable texture of dry leather. Steeped in just-boiled water for ten to fifteen minutes, the peel produces a deep ruby liquid with a tart, slightly astringent note — drink with a spoon of honey, or chill for an iced infusion. In cooking, a few crushed pieces add a tangy, slightly bitter edge to slow-cooked lamb, lentil soups, and rice dishes — a Middle Eastern and Turkish kitchen technique. Produced in Turkey from local pomegranates.

Available in four sizes — 100g, 250g, 500g, and 1kg — the 500g pouch covers a household's brewing needs for several months, and the 1kg works well for those who use the peel weekly. Store sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight; reseal tightly after each use to keep the peel brittle and aromatic. Best within the printed best-before date.