“Cracking one open feels like lifting the lid on a jewelry box.” ~Kate Lebo

Pomegranates, originating in Iran, have long captured the world's poetic and culinary imagination. One can easily see why they are an object of fascination for the poet and chef alike: A hard exterior that cracks open to reveal a wealth of ruby-colored gems, which offer a burst of juicy delight that is sweet, sour, astringent, and earthy all at the same time.

While they often cost a premium at the grocery store, we in Davis are lucky to have pomegranate trees growing in abundance throughout our region, including the mature and very abundant tree growing in my back yard.

For year's I've experimented with recipes to use this wealth of pom goodness, and have narrowed down my favorites to share with you in this gathering.

In this workshop you will:

• Learn several methods for de-seeding and juicing pomegranates

• Discuss culinary, medicinal and skin care uses for pomegranates

• Participate in creating several pom recipes, including: facial scrub, pom molasses, pom wine, and pom liqueur.

• Chat about the history and mythology of this amazing fruit

And you'll leave with:

• Some of the finished products you helped make (except the wine, that will take 6-12 months. We'll have to have a garden party when it's done ;) )

• A bag of poms

• A stack of recipes to try at home

• A fun and unique community experience :)

Investment: The $22 fee will cover materials