Watermelon Rind Preserves
Transform leftover watermelon rind into a stunningly sweet and zesty treat with this delightful Watermelon Rind Preserves recipe. Featuring a medley of simple ingredients like granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, aromatic ginger, and a fragrant cinnamon stick, this recipe brings new life to a commonly discarded part of the fruit. The watermelon rind is simmered until tender and transformed into a glossy, golden preserve that’s perfect for spreading on toast, topping pancakes, or serving alongside cheese boards. Not only is this preserve a tasty addition to your pantry, but it also reduces food waste in the most delicious way. With minimal preparation and just an hour of cooking, these homemade Watermelon Rind Preserves will become a cherished staple in your kitchen.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups Watermelon rind
- 2 cups Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Water
- 3 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
- 0.5 teaspoons Ground ginger
- 1 Cinnamon stick
Instructions
Start by preparing the watermelon rind: trim off all of the green skin and remove any remaining red fruit, leaving only the white rind. Cut the rind into small cubes or thin strips, approximately 1/2-inch wide.
In a large bowl, soak the watermelon rind in cold water for about 30 minutes to crisp them up (optional but recommended). Drain and set aside.
In a deep saucepan or pot, combine the water and granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved to create a simple syrup.
Add the prepared watermelon rind to the syrup, along with the lemon juice, lemon zest, ground ginger, and the cinnamon stick.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently, uncovered, for about 50-60 minutes or until the rind becomes translucent and the liquid thickens into a syrupy consistency.
Stir occasionally to make sure the mixture doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan. Remove the cinnamon stick after cooking is complete.
Allow the preserves to cool slightly. Ladle the mixture into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch of space at the top. Seal tightly with lids.
Refrigerate and allow the flavors to meld for at least 24 hours before serving. The preserves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 month or processed in a water bath for longer storage.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1824 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 2.1 g | 3% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 18 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 480.5 g | 175% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 458.4 g | ||
| Protein | 6.0 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 118 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 1123 mg | 24% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
