Unlock the Hidden Magic of Watermelon Peel: 3 Recipe Ideas!
Most folks deem the watermelon rind as mere scraps, relegating it to the bin. But, little do they realize, this often-discarded part of summer’s most refreshing fruit boasts not just health advantages but culinary potential too! So, how can we reimagine watermelon rinds? Let’s delve in.
1. Crispy Grilled Watermelon Rind
This snacking sensation will make you think twice before discarding those peels. Slice the watermelon, keeping the green exterior intact, and microwave for two minutes. Season with mustard oil, salt, turmeric, chili powder, or any of your preferred spices. Refrigerate these seasoned slices for a day or two. Arrange them on a parchment-covered baking tray and roast at 200°C for about 15 minutes. Flip and bake for another 8 minutes. Use these crispy delights as a unique salad topping or standalone treat.
2. Gourmet Watermelon Rind Jam
Channel your inner grandma and get adventurous with jam-making during the ripe season. If melon jam intrigued you, the watermelon rind variant will blow you away!
Ingredients:
- 1 kg watermelon rind strips
- 750 g sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
Procedure: - Combine the ingredients in a jam pot or deep saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, reaching up to 105°C, for approximately twenty minutes. A sugar thermometer can be handy here.
- Test the jam’s consistency by placing a droplet on a plate. If it sets, transfer your jam into jars, seal, and invert until cool.
3. Watermelon Rind & Cucumber Gazpacho
Ingredients:
- 250g watermelon rind
- 250g cucumber peel
- 100g cherry tomatoes
- Some stale bread
- 50g pine nuts
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 onion
- Parsley, finely chopped
- 30ml white vinegar
- 1 glass of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Procedure: - Dice the garlic and onion. Cube the blanched and softened watermelon rind.
- Soak the stale bread in white vinegar, and then toss in all ingredients except the pine nuts and a few reserved watermelon rind cubes.
- Blend well and pour into a serving dish. Season accordingly and top with pine nuts and the remaining watermelon rind cubes. Enjoy this refreshing blend on a hot day!
