Preserved Watermelon Rind
A sweet and tangy preserved watermelon rind treat with cloves and syrup, perfect as a unique dessert or snack for those who enjoy bold, fruity flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel thin green rind from the melon and remove the soft pink meat.
- Cut the remaining rind into 2-inch cubes, cover with water, and cook until tender, then drain.
- Combine the sugar, vinegar, and 1/2 cup water in a large covered kettle.
- Bring to a boil and cook over moderate heat for 10 minutes.
- Place the cloves in a spice bag and add to the kettle, then simmer for 1 hour.
- Add the cooked melon cubes and simmer gently for 1 1/2 hours, or until the melon is transparent.
- Put the rind into sterilized pint jars.
- Cover with hot syrup and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
When selecting watermelon, look for firm, heavy ones with a uniform shape. For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or ginger along with the cloves. If you prefer a less sweet preserve, reduce the sugar by a third. To achieve a crispier texture, you can soak the rind in a saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Preserved watermelon rind makes a unique accompaniment to cheese platters, enhancing savory flavors. Serve it alongside cured meats or as a sweet topping for toast. It pairs beautifully with Deep Dish Sugarless Apple Pie for a delightful dessert experience. Consider using it as a garnish in cocktails for an unexpected twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store the preserved watermelon rind in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and consume within a month. The syrup can be reused for other preserves or even as a sweetener in drinks. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat if you prefer to serve it warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Preserved Watermelon Rind contains roughly 1839 calories, with 4g protein, 445g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other types of melons for this recipe?
While this recipe is specifically for watermelon rind, you can experiment with other melons like cantaloupe or honeydew. However, the texture and flavor may differ, so adjust cooking times accordingly. Ensure you remove any soft flesh and follow the same preservation steps for best results.
How long will the preserved watermelon rind last?
If properly sealed in sterilized jars, the preserved watermelon rind can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within a month. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar by a third if you prefer a less sweet preserve. Keep in mind that sugar acts as a preservative as well, so lowering the amount may affect the shelf life. Taste the syrup after boiling and adjust according to your preference.
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).