Revamp Your Watermelon Waste- A Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Tasty Watermelon Rind Pickles

How to Make Watermelon Rind Pickles

Watermelon rind pickles are a delightful and tangy addition to any meal, offering a unique flavor profile that complements a variety of dishes. Whether you’re a fan of pickled vegetables or simply looking to repurpose the often-discarded watermelon rind, this guide will walk you through the process of making your own watermelon rind pickles at home. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll be able to enjoy these flavorful pickles in no time.

Ingredients

To make watermelon rind pickles, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 1 medium watermelon, with rind
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
– 1 teaspoon dill seeds
– 1 bay leaf
– 2 cloves
– 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
– Pickling cucumbers (optional, for extra crunch)

Instructions

1. Start by cutting the watermelon in half and scooping out the flesh, leaving about 1/2 inch of rind attached to the fruit. Discard the flesh and cut the rind into 1/4-inch thick slices. If desired, you can also add pickling cucumbers to the mixture for extra crunch.

2. In a large pot, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt have dissolved.

3. While the brine is heating, prepare a sterilized jar and lid. This can be done by boiling the jar and lid in water for about 10 minutes or by using a sterilizing solution.

4. Once the brine has come to a boil, add the mustard seeds, black peppercorns, dill seeds, bay leaf, cloves, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir well to combine.

5. Place the watermelon rind slices and, if using, the pickling cucumbers into the sterilized jar. Pour the hot brine over the ingredients, making sure to cover them completely.

6. Seal the jar with the lid and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, place the jar in the refrigerator and let it sit for at least 24 hours. The pickles will be ready to eat after this time, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month.

Enjoy Your Pickles

Watermelon rind pickles are a refreshing and flavorful treat that can be enjoyed on their own, added to salads, or served as a side dish. They make a great addition to any meal and are sure to impress your friends and family. So, go ahead and give this simple recipe a try, and you’ll be on your way to making delicious watermelon rind pickles in no time!