Fragrant and Sweet Watermelon Rind Jam
A Special Watermelon Jam Recipe Using the White Part of Watermelon Peels
Don’t throw away the white inner part of watermelon peels after enjoying the refreshing fruit this summer! You can make a unique watermelon rind jam with a subtle sweetness and delightful aroma, reminiscent of melons or pears. It’s easy to prepare using a peeler, and the deep sweetness of brown sugar combined with the tanginess of lemon juice creates a perfect spread for bread or crackers, or as a topping for yogurt. The faint watermelon scent that arises during cooking is truly captivating. Store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it chilled!
Main Ingredients- Watermelon rind (white part) from 1 whole watermelon
- 1 cup brown sugar
Additional Ingredients- 3-4 Tbsp lemon juice
- 3-4 Tbsp lemon juice
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, cut the watermelon into manageable pieces and place them in a container. Try to remove as many seeds as possible at this stage.
Step 2
After cutting the watermelon, scrape off the white inner part that remains. Using a vegetable peeler is convenient as it allows you to scrape thinly and evenly. Discard the thick green outer peel.
Step 3
Measure out the brown sugar, which will add a deep flavor to the jam.
Step 4
In a deep saucepan, combine the scraped watermelon rind and 1 cup of brown sugar. Begin cooking over medium-high heat. Stir continuously with a spatula until the sugar dissolves. It’s crucial to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
Step 5
As the watermelon rind begins to reduce and the volume decreases, lower the heat slightly. Continue to cook until the watermelon is about half reduced. Due to the moisture released, allow ample time for this reduction process.
Step 6
Once the watermelon has reduced sufficiently, continue stirring with the spatula to achieve the desired jam consistency. Remember to adjust the heat and stir regularly to prevent sticking.
Step 7
Prepare the lemon juice, which will add a refreshing tang and act as a preservative. Using freshly squeezed lemon juice will yield the best flavor.
Step 8
When the jam is almost at your desired consistency, add 3-4 tablespoons of the prepared lemon juice and cook for another hour. After adding the lemon juice, check the consistency periodically to ensure it doesn’t become too thick. Simmering gently for an hour will deepen the jam’s flavors.
Step 9
Turn off the heat when the jam reaches a thick consistency where it slowly drips from the spatula and the bottom of the pot is slightly visible. Remember that jam will thicken further as it cools, so it’s best to turn off the heat when it still seems slightly loose.
Step 10
While the jam is still hot, carefully pour it into a clean glass jar that has been sterilized by boiling and completely dried. Fill the jar to the brim, then close the lid. Let it cool completely before refrigerating. Enjoy your homemade watermelon jam chilled on toast, crackers, yogurt, or in any way you like!
