Dry Pomegranate Seeds

Anardana is the dried seeds of varieties of pomegranate (Punica granatum) too sour to eat as fresh fruit; they have a tangy, fruity flavor. The wild pomegranate called daru, which grows in the southern Himalayas, is reputed to yield the best anardana. Though used mostly for vegetables and legumes, anardana also flavors Moghul-style dishes. Bits of pomegranate pulp remain on the seeds as they dry, so they're a bit sticky and serve as a souring agent in Indian cuisine. The seeds are roasted and then ground and used instead of lime juice especially in places that have winters and fresh limes are not available.