Transform often-discarded watermelon rinds into a delightful, translucent preserve with this traditional recipe. By simmering the rind in a spiced syrup of sugar, ginger, and citrus, you create a sweet and tangy treat that rivals any store-bought candy. The ginger adds a subtle warmth that balances the sweetness, while the lemon and lime provide bright, zesty notes. These preserves are perfect for serving alongside cheese, as a topping for ice cream, or simply enjoyed as a nostalgic snack. The process involves soaking to remove bitterness and slow cooking until the rinds become crystal clear. It is an excellent way to reduce waste and enjoy every part of the fruit. Store in sterilized jars for a long-lasting, homemade gift or personal indulgence.
Watermelon Rind Preserves
Description
Transform often-discarded watermelon rinds into a delightful, translucent preserve with this traditional recipe. By simmering the rind in a spiced syrup of sugar, ginger, and citrus, you create a sweet and tangy treat that rivals any store-bought candy. The ginger adds a subtle warmth that balances the sweetness, while the lemon and lime provide bright, zesty notes. These preserves are perfect for serving alongside cheese, as a topping for ice cream, or simply enjoyed as a nostalgic snack. The process involves soaking to remove bitterness and slow cooking until the rinds become crystal clear. It is an excellent way to reduce waste and enjoy every part of the fruit. Store in sterilized jars for a long-lasting, homemade gift or personal indulgence.Ingredients
Directions
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Remove the red flesh from the watermelon and cut the remaining rind into 1-inch cubes.
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Peel off the tough green outer skin from the cubes, leaving only the white and pinkish layers.
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Place the rind cubes in a bowl and cover with 1 quart of water mixed with 1 tablespoon of lime juice.
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Let the rinds soak overnight in the refrigerator to draw out bitterness.
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Drain and rinse the soaked rinds thoroughly with cold water.
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Place the rinsed rinds in a saucepan and cover with fresh clear water.
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Bring to a boil and cook for 15 minutes.
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Drain the water from the boiled rinds and discard it.
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In the same saucepan, combine 1 quart of water, 2 cups of sugar, the sliced lemon, and the ginger sticks.
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Bring the syrup mixture to a boil and cook for 5 minutes until the sugar is dissolved.
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Add the drained watermelon rinds to the simmering syrup.
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Reduce heat and simmer gently until the rinds become translucent and clear, stirring occasionally.
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Remove from heat and let the preserves stand in the syrup overnight to absorb flavor.
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The next day, bring the mixture back to a gentle boil for a few minutes to thicken the syrup slightly.
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Ladle the hot rinds and syrup into sterilized jars, sealing them immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 595.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6.0g10%
- Saturated Fat 0.9g5%
- Cholesterol 11.5mg4%
- Sodium 234.8mg10%
- Total Carbohydrate 135.2g46%
- Dietary Fiber 1.0g4%
- Sugars 120.4g
- Protein 5.6g12%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Ensure jars are properly sterilized before filling to allow for long-term storage.
The soaking step is crucial for removing the bitter taste often associated with watermelon rind.
Adjust the amount of sugar if you prefer a less sweet preserve, though this may affect preservation.
These preserves can be stored in the refrigerator for several months once opened.
Serve with cheese, yogurt, or as a unique dessert topping.
