Watermelon Rind
Refreshing watermelon rind preserves with a sweet and tangy flavor, enhanced by aromatic spices. Perfect for summer snacking or unique gift-giving to adventurous eaters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover watermelon rind with cold water and set in refrigerator overnight.
- Drain and rinse the watermelon rind.
- Put the watermelon rind in boiling water and cook until clear, about 10 minutes.
- Drain the cooked watermelon rind.
- Combine sugar, white vinegar, oil of cloves, and oil of cinnamon in a large pot.
- Add the cooked watermelon rind to the syrup and simmer until well coated and slightly thickened.
- Pack the preserve into sterilized jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your watermelon rind preserves, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg for a spiced twist. If you want a more natural sweetener, you could substitute some of the sugar with honey or agave syrup. Make sure to use high-quality vinegar for the best taste, and feel free to experiment with different spices like cardamom or allspice if you enjoy those flavors.
Serving Suggestions
These watermelon rind preserves make a delicious topping for toasted bread or biscuits. They pair beautifully with cream cheese or goat cheese for a delightful appetizer. You can also use them as a unique filling in desserts, or serve alongside savory dishes like roasted meats to balance flavors. For a refreshing drink, mix with sparkling water for a unique twist on Jim'S Tropical Fruit Punch.
Storage & Reheating
Store your watermelon rind preserves in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Once opened, keep the jars in the refrigerator, where they can last for several weeks. To reheat, gently warm the preserves on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Watermelon Rind contains roughly 4890 calories, with 10g protein, 118g carbohydrates, and 501g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (202% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and potassium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 22g 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 unripe watermelon rind for this recipe?
While ripe watermelon rind is preferred for the best flavor and texture, you can use unripe rind if it is fresh and tender. Just be sure to cook it longer to ensure it becomes clear and palatable. The sweetness from the sugar and spices will enhance the overall taste.
How long can I store the watermelon rind preserves?
If properly sealed in sterilized jars, watermelon rind preserves can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 weeks for optimal freshness. Always check for signs of spoilage before use.
What can I do with leftover syrup from the cooking process?
The leftover syrup is flavorful and can be used in various ways. Consider using it as a sweetener for cocktails or iced teas, drizzling over pancakes or waffles, or incorporating it into salad dressings for a unique twist. It can also be stored in the refrigerator for future use.
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).