Are you ready to transform your watermelon scraps into a delightful treat? This Watermelon Rind Candy recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also a fantastic way to reduce food waste. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a fun kitchen project, and makes a unique, healthy-ish candy that's sure to impress. This recipe offers a simple approach to homemade cooking, resulting in a delicious dish perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Get ready to experience the magic of turning something often discarded into a sweet and delightful candy!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups watermelon rind, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Food coloring (gel is best)
- Optional: Extracts (vanilla, lemon, almond)
Instructions:
Preparing the Watermelon Rind:
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Clean and Prepare: Thoroughly wash the watermelon rind and peel off the green outer layer. Cut away any pink flesh remaining. You want only the white part of the rind. Cut the rind into roughly 1-inch thick pieces.
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Boil the Rind: Place the rind pieces in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rind is tender enough to easily pierce with a fork. Drain well.
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Remove Excess Water: To ensure the candy has a proper texture, press the rind pieces between paper towels to remove as much excess water as possible. This step is crucial for success!
Making the Candy:
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Sugar Syrup: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, water, corn syrup, and salt. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
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Simmer the Rind: Add the prepared watermelon rind to the syrup. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-30 minutes, or until the rind is translucent and the syrup is slightly thickened.
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Add Flavor (Optional): If using, add food coloring and/or extract during the last few minutes of cooking.
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Candy Test: To check if the candy is ready, drop a small amount of syrup onto a cold plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it's ready.
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Cool and Set: Carefully remove the rind pieces from the syrup and place them on a wire rack or parchment paper to cool completely. The candy will firm up as it cools.
Tips for Success:
- Use a Heavy-bottomed Pot: This prevents scorching and ensures even cooking.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pot: Ensure the rind pieces aren't overcrowded to allow for even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Patience is Key: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the rind pieces.
Variations:
- Spicy Candy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of chili extract for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Candy: Use lemon or lime zest and extract for a refreshing twist.
- Herb Candy: Infuse the syrup with fresh herbs like mint or basil for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving – approximate, based on yield and ingredients):
Serving size will vary greatly depending on the size of the rind used. This is an estimate and can change based on added flavors and sweeteners.
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Sugar: High
- Fat: Low
- Protein: Low
This simple recipe creates a unique and delicious candy, perfect for gifting or enjoying as a special treat. The bright, refreshing flavor is a delightful surprise, and it's a great way to minimize kitchen waste! Enjoy this fun and easy recipe, a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Remember to share your creations with us!