Evelyn'S Favorite Watermelon Pickles
Evelyn's Favorite Watermelon Pickles are a delightful sweet and tangy treat that highlight the refreshing essence of watermelon rind. With a hint of cloves and cinnamon, these pickles are perfect for summer picnics or as a unique condiment that pairs well with savory dishes. Ideal for adventurous home cooks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim off the green and pink parts of the rind and cut into cubes.
- When you have 3 1/2 quarts prepared, cover with water and cook until just tender, about 20 minutes.
- Add alum to the water and let stand overnight.
- If the weather is extremely hot and humid, keep the pan in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your watermelon pickles, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or using a mix of spices like nutmeg and allspice. If you don't have alum, you can substitute it with pickling lime, but be sure to adjust soaking times. Always taste your pickles before serving to ensure the balance of sweetness and spice suits your preference.
Serving Suggestions
These watermelon pickles make a delightful side dish, pairing wonderfully with BBQ meats or as a tangy topping on sandwiches. Serve alongside Sesame Green Beans for a balanced meal, or enjoy them as a unique addition to cheese platters. Their sweet and spicy flavor profile also complements savory dishes like California Stew.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pickles in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two months. If you want to preserve them longer, consider canning them in sterilized jars. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat, being careful not to boil, which can alter their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Evelyn'S Favorite Watermelon Pickles contains roughly 199 calories, with 1g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular sugar instead of a specific type?
Yes, you can use regular granulated sugar in place of specialty sugars. However, if you're looking for a more complex flavor, try brown sugar or honey, which can enhance the sweetness and add depth to your pickles.
How long do the pickles need to marinate?
After cooking and adding the alum, it’s crucial to let the watermelon rind marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the rind to absorb the spices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender pickle.
Is it necessary to refrigerate during hot weather?
Yes, if the weather is extremely hot and humid, it’s best to refrigerate the watermelon rind while it’s soaking in alum. This helps maintain the right texture and prevents spoilage, ensuring your pickles turn out delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).