Watermelon rind candy –Today’s delightful recipe features a unique twist on a summer favorite: candied watermelon rind. This treat is not only delicious but also a clever way to reduce food waste by using the often-overlooked part of the watermelon. There’s something truly special about transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Let’s dive into this sweet and savory adventure!
Savory Moments: Candied Watermelon Rind
To start, here’s a gorgeous image that showcases the vibrant beauty of this dish:
Now, let’s gather the ingredients for our candied watermelon rind. You will need:
- 4 cups watermelon rind (white part, peeled and cut into small pieces)
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Once you have your ingredients ready, follow these simple instructions to create this sweet treat:
- Begin by preparing the watermelon rind. Use a knife to remove the green skin and any pink flesh, leaving only the white part. Cut it into small, bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot, combine the water, sugar, and lemon juice (or vinegar) and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the pieces of watermelon rind to the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the rind becomes translucent and tender. Stir gently to ensure even cooking.
- If you’re using vanilla extract and cinnamon, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added flavor.
- Once the watermelon rind has reached a desired consistency, remove the pot from heat. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the candied rind to a cooling rack, allowing it to dry and harden for a couple of hours.
- After cooling, you can sprinkle with additional sugar if you like. Store the candied watermelon rind in an airtight container.
And there you have it—a delightful treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a unique addition to your dessert table. Enjoy the crunchy sweetness of candied watermelon rind, guilt-free!