Watermelon rind jam

Watermelon Rind Jam

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 370 ml

Every summer, watermelon brings us joy and refreshment, but what do we do when we are left with a large quantity of rinds? Instead of throwing them away, why not turn them into a delicious jam? This recipe will not only provide you with an excellent way to utilize the watermelon rind, but it will also add a unique touch to your pantry.

A Little History of the Recipe

Watermelon rind jam is a traditional preparation that has been passed down from generation to generation, an ingenious method of making use of every part of the fruit. The often-ignored rinds become a versatile ingredient, adding a sweet note and an interesting texture. This recipe is not only a way to reduce food waste but also an opportunity to experiment in the kitchen!

Ingredients

- 7 kg watermelon rinds (the white part, with a thin strip of red flesh)
- 3 liters of water (for boiling the rinds)
- 600 ml vinegar
- 1.5 liters of water (for syrup)
- 2 kg sugar (or adjusted to taste)
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Grated zest of 1 lemon
- Vanilla essence (amount to taste)
- Ground cinnamon (to taste)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Rinds
Cut the watermelon rind, ensuring you only use the white part, discarding the green skin. Slice the rinds into thin strips, about 1 cm thick, to ensure even boiling.

2. Boiling the Rinds
In a large pot, add 3 liters of water and 600 ml of vinegar. Bring to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the watermelon rinds. Simmer for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will make the rinds translucent and softer. It is important to use vinegar, as it helps preserve the texture of the rinds, preventing them from becoming too mushy.

3. Cooling the Rinds
After boiling, drain the rinds in a colander and rinse them under cold running water. This step will help remove the vinegar taste. Gently press them to remove excess water.

4. Preparing the Syrup
In another pot, add 1.5 liters of water and 2 kg of sugar. Bring to a boil and add the drained rinds. It is good to know that, in other recipes, the amount of sugar is equivalent to that of the rinds, but we found that 2 kg provides a balanced sweetness. Boil until the syrup thickens, about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

5. Flavoring the Jam
When the syrup has reached an appropriate consistency, add the lemon juice and grated zest, vanilla essence, and cinnamon. These ingredients will add a deep and interesting flavor to the jam. Another idea is to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger to create a personalized version.

6. Bottling
Once the jam is ready, pour it into sterilized jars, filling them to about 1 cm from the top. Seal the lids tightly. Place the jars in a large pot with water and boil them in a water bath for 30 minutes to ensure preservation.

7. Cooling and Storing
Allow the jars to cool completely, preferably leaving them in a draft for 1-2 days before storing them in the pantry. The jam will preserve well and will be ready for consumption throughout the year!

Practical Tips

- Decorating the Jars: A cute idea is to decorate the jars with handmade labels or a piece of colorful fabric tied with twine, giving them a rustic and personalized look.
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners.
- Serving: The jam is delicious on a slice of toasted bread, in yogurt, or as a filling for pastries. It can also be used as a topping for pancakes or frozen desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use melon rinds or other fruits?
Yes, the process is similar, but make sure to adjust the boiling time according to the hardness of the rinds.

- How is the jam stored?
If stored in sterilized and properly sealed jars, the jam can be kept for up to a year.

- Can it be frozen?
Although the jam preserves very well in the pantry, if you have a large quantity, you can freeze small portions in glass containers.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This jam, depending on the amount of sugar used, contains approximately 150-200 calories per serving (about 100g). Watermelon rinds are high in fiber and low in calories, providing digestive benefits. They also have a high water content, which helps to hydrate the body.

Possible Variations

- Adding Dried Fruits: You can add some pieces of dried apricots or raisins for extra flavor.
- Exotic Spices: Try adding cardamom or star anise for an oriental twist.
- Jam Ice Cream: Use the jam as a base for homemade ice cream, mixing it with cream or yogurt.

Personal Note

This watermelon rind jam recipe is not only a way to reduce food waste but also a reminder of summer, bringing a touch of joy to the tables of loved ones. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with those close to you, turning a simple rind into an unforgettable dessert!