Sweet Watermelon Pickle
Sweet Watermelon Pickle features crunchy watermelon rind preserved in a sugary, spiced syrup, offering a tangy-sweet flavor perfect as a relish or condiment for various dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the watermelon rinds by cutting off the pink part and the hard green outer rind.
- Cut the rind into desired shapes and soak in alum water (1 tablespoon alum to 1 quart cool water) for 2 to 3 quarts.
- Let stand overnight.
- Drain and rinse the rinds thoroughly.
- Add water to cover the rinds and cook until tender, about 30 minutes.
- Drain thoroughly and proceed with the preserving process.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal texture, ensure you cut the watermelon rind into uniform pieces. If you don't have alum, you can substitute with pickling lime, though the soaking time may vary. Experiment with additional spices like cloves or nutmeg for a unique flavor twist. You can also adjust the sugar level based on the sweetness preference, but remember it is essential for preservation.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet watermelon pickles are an excellent accompaniment to savory dishes like Spareribs, Sauerkraut And Potatoes, balancing the meal with their sweetness. Serve them as a unique side at barbecues or picnics, or use them to elevate cheese platters. They also pair well with spicy or tangy dishes, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sweet watermelon pickles in sterilized jars in the refrigerator. They can last for several months if sealed properly. For best flavor, allow them to marinate for at least a week before consuming. Reheat gently in a saucepan if you prefer them warm, but they are delicious served cold straight from the jar.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Watermelon Pickle contains roughly 2583 calories, with 14g protein, 655g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (286% of the Daily Value), iron (157% of the Daily Value), and calcium (115% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 660mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
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 vinegar instead of white vinegar?
Yes, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that this may alter the sweetness slightly, so taste your syrup before adding the rinds to ensure it meets your preference.
How long do these pickles need to sit before they are ready to eat?
For the best flavor, it is recommended to let the sweet watermelon pickles sit for at least a week. This allows the rinds to absorb the vinegar and sugar mixture fully, enhancing their taste and texture.
Can I can these pickles for longer storage?
Absolutely! If you want to can the sweet watermelon pickles, ensure your jars are sterilized and follow proper canning procedures. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for about 10-15 minutes to ensure they are sealed for long-term storage.
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).