Watermelon Rind Pickles (Crisp Version) Recipe
Description:
Watermelon rind pickles offer a delightful twist to traditional pickling recipes, boasting a crisp texture and a hint of ginger for a unique flavor profile. Perfect for snacking or accompanying lunch spreads, these pickles are a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Recipe Details:
- Category: Lunch/Snacks 🥪
- Keywords: Melons, Fruit, Vegetable, Kid Friendly, Potluck, < 15 Mins, Canning 🍉🥒
- Yield: 7 pints
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 4 | watermelon rind |
| 3 | pickling lime |
| 2 | water |
| 2 | whole cloves |
| 3 | cinnamon sticks |
| 2 | gingerroot |
| 1 | lemon |
| 8 | sugar |
| 1 | white vinegar |
| 1 | water |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 922.3
- Fat Content: 0.4g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 19.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 232.6g
- Fiber Content: 1.4g
- Sugar Content: 229g
- Protein Content: 0.3g
Instructions:
- Prepare Watermelon Rind:
- Trim the dark skin and pink flesh from the thick watermelon rind, then cut it into 1-inch pieces or as desired.
- Lime Solution:
- Dissolve pickling lime in 2 quarts of water, then pour it over the rind. Ensure the rind is fully submerged; add more water if necessary. Let it stand for 2 hours.
- Rinse and Cook:
- Drain the lime solution and rinse the rind thoroughly. Cover the rinsed rind with cold water and cook until just tender. Once tender, drain the water.
- Prepare Spice Bag:
- Tie the whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, and gingerroot in a cheesecloth bag, creating a convenient spice bundle.
- Simmer Spices:
- In a large pot, combine the spice bag with the remaining ingredients (lemon, sugar, white vinegar, and water). Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes, infusing the flavors.
- Add Rind:
- Add the cooked watermelon rind to the simmering liquid and continue to simmer until the rind becomes clear and translucent. If the syrup thickens too much before the rind clears, add boiling water as needed.
- Remove Spice Bag:
- Once the rind is clear and tender, remove the spice bag from the pot, ensuring no spices remain in the liquid.
- Pack in Jars:
- While still boiling hot, pack the watermelon rind and syrup into sterilized mason jars, leaving about 1/8-inch headspace at the top of each jar.
- Seal Jars:
- Adjust the caps of the jars securely and allow them to seal properly, following standard canning procedures.
Serving Suggestions:
These watermelon rind pickles make a delightful addition to cheese platters, sandwich spreads, or as a tangy snack on their own. Enjoy the crisp texture and zesty flavor that will surely tantalize your taste buds!
Storage:
Store the sealed jars of watermelon rind pickles in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate any remaining pickles to maintain freshness and flavor.
Try this crisp version of watermelon rind pickles for a delightful twist on traditional pickling recipes. With its unique blend of spices and refreshing taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite! 🍉✨
