Watermelon jelly, particularly made with watermelon rind, is a nostalgic treat from Southern American cuisine. Traditionally, this method of preserving fruit rinds dates back to the 19th century when resourcefulness in the kitchen was paramount. Rather than discarding the rind, cooks transformed it into a sweet and tangy jelly, often flavored with lemons and cooked to a syrupy consistency. This recipe preserves the unique texture of the watermelon rind and infuses it with citrusy brightness, making it a delightful addition to biscuits, toast, or even used as a glaze for meats. A perfect example of waste-not-want-not Southern culinary traditions, watermelon rind jelly is both eco-friendly and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 cups water melon rinds
- 2 tbsp salt
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 lemons
- water (enough to cover the rind for soaking and boiling)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rind
- Cut watermelon rind into bite-sized pieces, removing all pink flesh and green outer skin.
Step 2: Soak
- Soak rind pieces in salt water for about 6 hours.
Step 3: Boil the Rind
- Wash the rind thoroughly in clean water.
- Place in a pot, cover with fresh water, and boil until the rind is tender and looks translucent.
Step 4: Combine with Sugar
- Drain the boiled rind and measure it.
- Add an equal amount of sugar to the rind (bowl to bowl measurement).
Step 5: Add Lemons and Boil
- Cut plenty of lemons and add to the sugar and rind mixture.
- Boil the entire mixture until the syrup thickens.
Step 6: Seal the Jelly
- Pour the thickened jelly into sterilized jars.
- Seal as you would for jelly using canning methods.
Tips
- Add spices like cinnamon or ginger for a warm flavor.
- Use lime instead of lemon for a tropical twist.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
- Great as a glaze for pork or chicken.
Nutrition
Serving: 1tbspCalories: 55kcalCarbohydrates: 14gSodium: 15mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 13g
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