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Watermelon Rind Preserves Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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