What can I substitute for pomegranate molasses?
Running low on pomegranate molasses? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About pomegranate molasses
Pomegranate molasses is a thick, dark syrup made by reducing pomegranate juice until it becomes intensely concentrated, yielding a complex sweet-tart flavour with fruity depth. It is a staple of Middle Eastern cookery, used to add acidity, sweetness, and a distinctive tartness to both savoury and sweet dishes. Its thick consistency and bold flavour make it a versatile ingredient in dressings, marinades, sauces, and baked goods.
Best substitute
tamarind paste thinned with pomegranate juice
Tamarind paste delivers a similar fruity, tangy complexity and thick consistency. Thinning it with a little pomegranate juice or cranberry juice bridges the flavour gap and provides a comparable sweet-sour balance.
Use 1 tbsp for every 1 tbsp of pomegranate molasses
marinadessaucesdressingsbraisesNot suitable for: delicate desserts
Alternative
cranberry juice concentrate
Cranberry juice concentrate mimics the deep, tart berry flavour of pomegranate molasses reasonably well. Reduce it on the stovetop if you need a thicker consistency similar to the original.
Use 1 tbsp for every 1 tbsp — reduce by simmering if a thicker texture is needed
dressingsmarinadessaucesNot suitable for: precise flavour matching
Alternative
balsamic vinegar
Balsamic vinegar shares the sweet-acid profile and similarly thick, syrupy texture of pomegranate molasses. It lacks the fruity berry notes but works well in savoury applications such as glazes and dressings.
What is pomegranate molasses called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | pomegranate molasses |
| IR | rob-e anar |
| LB | dibs rumman |
| United Kingdom | pomegranate molasses |
| United States | pomegranate molasses |
Common names for pomegranate molasses
pomegranate syruppomegranate pastedibs rummanconcentrated pomegranate juice