Sadaf Pomegranate Paste - Molasses

10 fl oz/300 ml - Lebanon

This pomegranate paste is one of the Top 10 Pantry Ingredients noted in Yotam Ottolenghi's cookbook, SIMPLE.

Long a favorite ingredient in Middle Eastern and Persian cuisine, pomegranate molasses (or paste) is starting to be recognized more and more here for its versatility and the rich, distinct sweet-tart flavors it brings to a wide range of dishes.

Sadaf pomegranate molasses is made from tart pomegranates with a little sugar added to balance the tartness. It is reduced to a thick, molasses-like consistency. Rather than the bright red of the fresh fruit, it's a dark, syrupy mahogany color, sometimes with a slightly grainy texture.

Suggestions for Pomegranate Paste Use:

Traditionally, paste like this Sadaf pomegranate molasses appears more in savory dishes than sweet, adding a tangy, fruity note to dips, spreads, and main dishes of all kinds.

It's a great addition to stir-fries, thickening the sauce and adding its flavor notes. Sadaf pomegranate molasses makes a beautiful salad dressing, particularly when combined with walnut oil.

Page through Middle Eastern cookbooks, and you'll find myriad recipes for this wonderful elixir, or search our Recipes section for enticing treats like Pomegranate Cranberry Smoothies, Chicken Thighs Braised in Pomegranate Molasses, and more.