Pickled watermelon

Pickled Watermelon Recipe: An Unusual Delicacy for Your Taste Buds

If you've ever faced a watermelon that didn't meet your expectations, don't be discouraged! Instead of letting disappointment overwhelm you, I propose a delicious and unique solution: pickled watermelon. This simple and quick recipe transforms a disappointing fruit into a tangy and refreshing snack, perfect for hot days. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Pickling time: 4-5 days
- Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients
- 1 watermelon (approximately 2-3 kg)
- 1 carrot
- ½ green chili pepper
- 2 celery stalks
- A small bunch of fresh dill
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- Coarse salt (1 tablespoon per 1 liter of water)
- Water (enough to fill the jar)

A Brief History of Pickling
Pickling has been used throughout history as a method of preserving food, especially during warm months when fresh produce spoils quickly. Not only does it help extend the shelf life of foods, but it also adds a unique and intense flavor. In many cultures, pickles are an essential part of the meal, served as a side dish or appetizer. And pickled watermelon is an original and surprising choice that is worth trying!

Step by Step for Pickled Watermelon

1. Preparing the Watermelon
- Cut the watermelon into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. Make sure to remove the seeds to avoid an unpleasant taste in the pickles.
- Place the slices in a large bowl for easy handling.

2. Preparing the Jar
- Choose a clean glass jar, 1-2 liters in size, with a tight lid. This will be where the cut watermelon ferments and transforms into a delicacy.
- At the bottom of the jar, place a few pieces of celery, a few peeled garlic cloves (you can leave them whole or cut them in half, depending on your taste), and a small bunch of fresh dill.

3. Adding the Ingredients
- Alternate layers of watermelon slices with carrot slices to add a crunchy texture and a contrast of colors.
- On top, place the slices of green chili pepper for a bit of heat. You can adjust the amount of chili according to your preferences.

4. Preparing the Brine
- In a pot, bring enough water to a boil to fill the jar. For each liter of water, add one tablespoon of coarse salt. Stir well until the salt is completely dissolved.
- Let the brine cool slightly, ideally to lukewarm, but not hot.

5. Filling the Jar
- Carefully pour the brine over the watermelon in the jar, ensuring that all the slices are completely covered by the liquid.
- If necessary, you can add a weight (for example, a small jar filled with water) to keep the watermelon submerged.

6. Fermentation
- Close the jar with a tight lid, but not too tight, to allow gases to escape during fermentation.
- Place the jar in a warm spot, away from direct sunlight. Fermentation will take between 4 and 5 days, depending on the ambient temperature.

7. Maintaining Fermentation
- Check the jar daily and turn it upside down a few times to ensure even distribution of the brine.
- Taste the pickles after 4 days; if you like the flavor, move the jar to the refrigerator. If not, let it sit for a few more days.

Practical Tips
- Use a ripe watermelon, but not overly sweet, to balance the tangy flavor of the pickles.
- Try to use fresh, quality ingredients for a more intense taste.
- Experiment with other spices, such as peppercorns or bay leaves, to add new flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of fruit for pickling?
- Yes! You can experiment with other fruits like pineapple or mango, but the fermentation time may vary.

2. How long can I keep pickles in the refrigerator?
- Pickled watermelon can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

3. What can I do with pickled watermelon?
- You can serve it as an appetizer alongside cheese or cold cuts, or use it in salads for a surprising flavor.

Conclusion
Pickled watermelon is a simple yet surprising recipe that adds a touch of originality to your meals. Try this preservation method and enjoy its tangy flavor, which will refresh you on hot days. Enjoy your meal!