15 ways to use up that pomegranate molasses

Like fish sauce, pomegranate molasses is one of those ingredients that you use sparingly in cooking, but can only seem to buy in huge bottles. We've got 15 delicious solutions to that exact problem!

Don't overlook the origins of this much-loved ingredient.

Don't overlook the origins of this much-loved sesame paste. Source: Feast magazine

A reduction made from pomegranate juice, molasses is a versatile ingredient that brings a tangy flavour to your cooking from salads to seafood...

Grab a whole pomegranate and a bottle of its molasses for this one. The quail is glazed using molasses, giving it a sticky coating that's quite addictive. The seeds from the pomegranate make their way into the salad and add that distinct vibrant purple colour.

Glazed quail with chickpea fritters
Source: Prue Ruscoe

Grilled eggplant wrapped around a walnut, pomegranate and herb stuffing will take centre stage at your next BBQ. Drizzle over a little pomegranate molasses before serving to give them a tangy kick, and glossy shine.

Walnut-stuffed aubergine rolls
Source: Laura Edwards / Kyle Books

Why should lettuce leaves get all the attention on the salad stage? Fill a large bowl with oregano leaves, toss in some tomato, molasses and sumac, drizzle with lemon and olive oil and you've got a salad that'll actually get eaten.

Fresh oregano salad with pomegranate molasses and sumac
Fresh and healthy Source: Mark Roper

Muhammara is a Turkish dip made from roasted capsicum, pomegranate molasses and walnuts, and makes a perfect bed for a serve of crunchy, fresh prawns.

Crunchy prawns with walnut muhammara (kadayifli karides)
Crunchy prawns with walnut muhammara (kadayifli karides) Source: Alan Benson

Notably more vibrant than other countries' versions of tabouleh, Turkey's offering calls for balsamic vinegar and pomegranate molasses to give it a sweet and sour complexion. Perfect served cold alongside your favourite grilled meats and veggies.

Turkish tabouleh
Source: Murdoch Books

Hit the butcher and get your meat marinating the night before you make this Persian spread. Pomegranate molasses is the sour element here, lending a depth and richness that you won't get from anything else.

Persian ‘sour’ kebabs (kebab torsh)
Source: Sharyn Cairns

Beautifully tender meat wrapped around a fruity and tangy stuffing will have you reaching for more (and makes for a great leftover lunch the next day).

Apricot-stuffed lamb backstrap with tomato and almond salad
Source: Hugh Adams

Here's a wholesome, satisfying salad that is ideal for serving up at an outdoor BBQ or picnic. The gorgeous cranberries pack a burst of sweetness, while the molasses creates a zesty dressing.

Cauliflower and cranberry salad
Cauliflower and cranberry salad Source: Sharyn Cairns

The avocado and yoghurt dressing is one you'll want to keep up your sleeve - it's creamy and tangy. Drizzle generously over the molasses-marinated prawns and watch the afternoon summer sun go down.

BBQ sumac prawn cocktail
BBQ sumac prawn cocktail with avocado and sumac yoghurt Source: Lina Jebeil

The Middle Eastern version of a veggie pattie, kofte are a staple across the region. Fill a pita pocket with one and add your favourite veg, herbs and sauce.

Lentil and burgul kofte with dukkah
Source: Sharyn Cairns

Duck Marylands that are marinated in duck fat, spices and pomegranate molasses are slow-baked for four hours to produce a beautifully tender meat that showcases the best of Turkish cooking.

Pomegranate duck
Source: SBS Food

Everyone loves hummus and this version is finished with parsley, pomegranate seeds and extra pomegranate molasses.

Don't overlook the origins of this much-loved ingredient.
Don't overlook the origins of this much-loved sesame paste. Source: Feast magazine

It’s both a wow of a pudding and – given that all the elements can be made in advance and just put together at the last minute – is also a very relaxing one to make and serve to friends.

Strawberry and rose mess
Source: Nopi

Featuring orange-blossom water, rice vermicelli and pomegranate seeds, the contrasting textures and flavours make faloodeh a unique frozen treat. This refreshing, dairy-free dessert is finished off with pomegranate seeds and syrupy molasses.

Shot03_Persian_Faloodeh_p95.jpg

This is a wicked take on Eton mess, the well-known dessert of meringue, cream and berries. This version has tangy pomegranate-and-cranberry jelly stirred through – and it tastes so good!

moroccan_mess_1996515418
Source: Karen Martini

Have we got your attention and your tastebuds? The Chefs’ Line airs every weeknight at 6pm on SBS followed by an encore screening at 9.30pm on SBS Food Network. Episodes will be available after broadcast via SBS On Demand. Join the conversation #TheChefsLine on Instagram @sbsfood, Facebook @SBSFood and Twitter @SBS_Food. Check out sbs.com.au/thechefsline for episode guides, cuisine lowdowns, recipes and more!

 


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SBS Food is a 24/7 foodie channel for all Australians, with a focus on simple, authentic and everyday food inspiration from cultures everywhere. NSW stream only. Read more about SBS Food

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