Summer's bounty often leaves us with more watermelon than we can possibly eat fresh. But don't toss those watermelon rinds! They're a hidden treasure trove of flavor, perfect for creating a surprisingly delicious and refreshing pickle. This easy recipe transforms this often-discarded part of the watermelon into a vibrant and tangy side dish, perfect for adding a unique twist to your healthy meals or quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game with this surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding recipe!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups watermelon rind, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (see tip below)
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Watermelon Rind
This is the most important step! Carefully peel the green rind from the watermelon. Then, cut away any pink or red flesh remaining, as it can become mushy during pickling. Cut the rind into 1/2-inch cubes. Soaking the rind in cold, salted water for at least 2 hours (or even overnight) helps remove any lingering bitterness. This is a crucial step for delicious, best recipes.
Step 2: Making the Brine
In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, turmeric powder, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
Step 3: Pickling the Rind
Once the brine is boiling, add the drained watermelon rind cubes. Reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rind is tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Canning (Optional)
For longer storage, you can can your pickles. Pack the hot pickles into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Wipe the jar rims clean, place lids and rings on, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This ensures they last longer and keeps your food recipes safe.
Step 5: Cooling and Serving
Allow the pickles to cool completely before storing in the refrigerator. These easy recipes are best enjoyed after they have had a chance to chill and allow the flavors to meld. Serve alongside grilled meats, fish, or as a refreshing addition to sandwiches or salads.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Choose a firm watermelon: Rinds from firm watermelons will hold their shape better during pickling.
- Don't skip the soaking: Soaking the rind removes bitterness and helps it absorb the brine better.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to experiment with different spice combinations to create your own unique flavor profile. Consider adding cloves, ginger, or allspice.
- Check for doneness: The watermelon rind should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
Delicious Variations:
- Sweet and Spicy: Increase the sugar and add more red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Dill Pickle Twist: Add a few sprigs of fresh dill to the brine for a classic dill pickle flavor.
- Ginger Zing: Incorporate a tablespoon or two of grated fresh ginger for a spicy, aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Serving size will vary depending on the amount of pickles made. This is an approximation based on a typical serving size of about 1/2 cup.
- Calories: Approximately 50-70
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
- Sugar: Approximately 10-15g
- Fiber: Approximately 1-2g
This simple recipe is a delightful way to reduce food waste and enjoy a unique, healthy, and delicious treat. These quick dinner ideas are sure to become a favorite among your homemade cooking repertoire. Enjoy!