Sweetness from watermelon rind

The sweet from watermelon rind is a surprising delicacy that combines the delicate texture and sweet aroma of an often-overlooked ingredient. This recipe not only transforms the rind into a savory dish but also brings a touch of nostalgia in every jar. It is an excellent choice for a quick dessert or a perfect accompaniment to fine cheeses, and the combination with rose water adds a unique floral note. Let's discover together each step of this delicious recipe.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4 small jars

Ingredients:
- 500 g watermelon rind (the white part)
- 300 g sugar
- 1 small cup of water
- 1 tablespoon Kotanyi cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon Kotanyi nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon Kotanyi ginger
- a few cracked cardamom pods
- optional: 1-2 tablespoons rose water

Preparing the watermelon rind sweet:

1. Preparing the rind: Start by peeling the watermelon. Use a sharp knife to remove the green skin, leaving only the white part. This part is rich in nutrients and has the perfect texture for jam. Once you have the rind, you can cut it into small pieces or process it in a food processor or grater to achieve a uniform texture.

2. Boiling the ingredients: In a large pot, add the watermelon rind, sugar, and small cup of water. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes so that the sugar dissolves and begins to release the juices of the watermelon rind.

3. Adding spices: After letting the mixture sit, add the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom pods. These spices not only bring a warm and comforting aroma but also have antioxidant properties. If desired, you can also add rose water for a delicate floral taste. Mix all the ingredients well.

4. Boiling: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. It is important to stir constantly to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot. During boiling, a foam will form on the surface; remove it with a spoon to achieve a clear and fine jam. Boil the mixture for about 20 minutes or until the watermelon rind becomes soft and takes on a transparent color.

5. Bottling: Once the jam is ready, prepare the sterilized jars. You can sterilize the jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Fill each jar with the hot jam, leaving a small space at the top. Seal the jars with the sterilized lids and place them in a pot of water. Bring the water to a boil and let them steam for 10-15 minutes to ensure they seal well.

6. Cooling and storing: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. The watermelon rind jam can be enjoyed in a few weeks, but it will taste best after a few months of storage.

Helpful tips:
- Choose a fresh and firm watermelon; the rind should be intact and free of spots.
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar. However, keep in mind that sugar is a natural preservative, so a drastic reduction may affect the shelf life.
- Experiment with other flavors! You can add a bit of lemon juice to balance the sweetness or try different spices like cloves or vanilla.

Nutritional benefits: Watermelon rind is a good source of vitamin C and contains antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system. It is also rich in water, making it a good choice for hydration.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use cantaloupe rind as well? Yes, cantaloupe rind can be used, but the taste will be different.
- How can I use the watermelon rind jam? This jam is perfect for spreads, as a topping for yogurt or cheese, or as an ingredient in various cakes and desserts.
- How long does this jam last? If stored correctly in sterilized jars, the jam can last up to a year.

Serving suggestion: Serve the watermelon rind jam alongside a mature cheese, such as brie or cheddar, for a savory contrast. You can also add a spoonful of jam to your favorite tea for a sweet and aromatic flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Try this simple and quick recipe, and let yourself be carried away by the delicate flavors of the watermelon rind jam. You will discover a new way to appreciate this ingredient, and the result will surely please everyone. Happy cooking!