Watermelon Rind Preserves Recipe

Introduction

Watermelon rind preserves are a delightful way to use the often-discarded part of the watermelon. This sweet and tangy preserve combines the mild flavor of watermelon rind with bright citrus and warm ginger, making a unique spread perfect for toast or cheese boards.

Ingredients

• 2 cups watermelon rinds (cut into ¼ inch pieces)
• 2 oranges (washed and sliced)
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups organic brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Instructions

1. Step 1: Wash the watermelon, dry it, and peel off the green skin, discarding it. Slice the white part of the rind into ¼ inch cubes.
2. Step 2: Wash the oranges, cut them into slices, then cut each slice into smaller pieces.
3. Step 3: In a medium pot, combine the watermelon rind pieces, orange slices, brown sugar, water, and freshly grated ginger. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil.
4. Step 4: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 1 hour and 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Step 5: Mash some of the watermelon and orange rinds with a spoon to help thicken the preserve. Test the consistency by scooping some onto a spoon; if it drips off thinly, continue cooking. When thick and dense, the preserve is ready.

Tips & Variations

• Use organic brown sugar for a richer flavor and to avoid chemicals.
• If you prefer a spicier preserve, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or cloves.
• For a smoother texture, pulse the cooked preserve briefly in a blender once cooled slightly.

Storage

Store the watermelon rind preserves in a clean airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, consider canning the preserves using proper sterilization techniques. Reheat gently before serving if preferred warm.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute regular granulated sugar, but brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor that complements the preserves well.

Is it necessary to remove the green skin of the watermelon rind?

Yes, the green skin is tough and bitter, so it should be peeled off, leaving only the white rind pieces for the preserves.

Watermelon Rind Preserves Recipe

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4.7 from 71 reviews

Delight in a unique and refreshing homemade Watermelon Rind Preserve made with tender watermelon rind, juicy oranges, and a hint of ginger. This sweet and tangy preserve is perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or enjoying as a flavorful condiment. Utilizing the often-discarded watermelon rind transforms it into a delicious, sustainable treat.

• Author: nova
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: About 2 cups of preserves 1x
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Preserve Ingredients

• 2 cups watermelon rinds, peeled and cut into ¼ inch pieces
• 2 oranges, washed and sliced
• 1 cup water
• 2 cups organic brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

Instructions

1. Prepare the Watermelon Rind: Wash the watermelon thoroughly, dry it, then peel off the green skin and discard it. Slice the white part of the rind into ¼ inch cubes to use for the preserve.
2. Prepare the Oranges: Wash the oranges, then slice them and further cut each slice into smaller pieces to help release their flavor into the preserve.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized pot, combine the watermelon rind pieces, orange slices, brown sugar, water, and freshly grated ginger. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Preserve: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 1 hour and 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
5. Check the Jam Consistency: After simmering, mash some of the watermelon and orange rinds with a spoon. Test the jam by scooping a spoonful and letting it drip off; if the preserve is thick and dense without running off quickly, it is ready. If it’s still runny, continue cooking a bit longer, checking periodically.

Notes

• Make sure to remove the green outer skin of the watermelon rind, as it is too tough to eat.
• Use organic brown sugar for a richer, more natural flavor.
• Freshly grated ginger adds a subtle spiciness that complements the sweetness of the rind and oranges perfectly.
• Store the preserves in sterilized jars and refrigerate if not consuming immediately.
• Watermelon rind preserves make a great sustainable way to reduce food waste.

Keywords: Watermelon rind preserves, homemade jam, sustainable recipes, fruit preserves, summer recipes, ginger preserves