Kristy Cook
When it comes to enjoying watermelon, most people relish the juicy red flesh and discard the rind without a second thought. However, with a bit of creativity and some simple ingredients, you can turn this often-overlooked part of the fruit into a delicious and unique treat: watermelon rind candy. Not only is this recipe a delightful way to reduce waste, but it also offers a sweet, tangy, and slightly chewy snack that can be enjoyed year-round.
A Brief History of Watermelon Rind Candy
Watermelon rind candy is believed to have originated in the southern United States, where resourcefulness in the kitchen often leads to innovative and sustainable culinary creations. This candy captures the essence of summer while making use of the whole fruit, showcasing the ingenuity of home cooks in transforming scraps into something special.
Benefits of Watermelon Rind Candy
1. Sustainability: Using watermelon rinds helps reduce food waste.
2. Nutritional Value: Watermelon rinds contain vitamins B and C, and they are a good source of fiber.
3. Versatility: This candy can be flavored in various ways, making it easy to customize.
Recipe: Watermelon Rind Candy
Ingredients:
– 4 cups watermelon rind, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cups water
– 4 cups sugar
– 1/2 cup lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
– 4-5 whole cloves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rind:
– Begin by cutting the watermelon and saving the red flesh for another use.
– Peel the green outer skin from the rind, leaving only the white part.
– Cut the rind into 1-inch cubes.
2. Soak the Rind:
– Place the rind cubes in a large bowl and cover them with water.
– Let them soak for 4-6 hours or overnight. This helps to soften the rind.
3. Cook the Rind:
– Drain the soaked rind and place it in a large pot.
– Add 4 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
– Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes until the rind is tender but still firm.
– Drain and set aside.
4. Make the Syrup:
– In the same pot, combine the sugar, lemon juice, and 4 cups of water.
– Add the cinnamon stick and cloves if using.
– Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
5. Candy the Rind:
– Add the drained watermelon rind to the syrup.
– Reduce the heat and simmer gently for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
– Cook until the rind is translucent and the syrup thickens.
6. Finish the Candy:
– Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly.
– Using a slotted spoon, transfer the rind pieces to a wire rack to drain and cool completely.
– If desired, roll the cooled pieces in additional sugar for extra sweetness.
7. Store the Candy:
– Store the watermelon rind candy in an airtight container. It will keep for several weeks.
Tips for Success
– Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavorings like ginger, vanilla, or mint to customize your candy.
– Presentation: For a festive touch, roll the finished candy in colored sugar or drizzle with a bit of melted chocolate.
– Usage: Watermelon rind candy makes a great gift, or it can be used as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt.
Conclusion
Watermelon rind candy is a wonderful example of turning waste into a tasty treasure. This sustainable treat is not only delightful to eat but also a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness that can be found in kitchens around the world. Next time you enjoy a watermelon, don’t throw away the rind—transform it into a sweet and tangy candy that will surprise and delight everyone who tries it.
