Watermelon is a refreshing summer fruit enjoyed worldwide, but many people toss out the peel, unaware of its hidden potential. Instead of discarding watermelon peels, they can be repurposed in both the kitchen and the garden, offering a sustainable and resourceful solution. In this article, we’ll explore the many ways you can reuse watermelon peels, reducing waste and making the most out of this often-overlooked part of the fruit.
In the Kitchen: Culinary Uses for Watermelon Peels
Watermelon peels are not just edible but can be transformed into delightful recipes that are both delicious and nutritious. The peel, especially the white part, is rich in fiber and antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to various dishes.
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- Watermelon Peel Jam
One of the most popular and easy ways to reuse watermelon peels in the kitchen is by turning them into jam. Watermelon peel jam is sweet, slightly tangy, and pairs well with breakfast dishes or pastries. Here’s a simple recipe:
Instruction
Wash the outer surface of the watermelon thoroughly, and remove the green skin to reveal the white part.
Chop the white rind into small cubes.
Boil the rind in water for about 15-20 minutes until softened. Reserve the cooking water (this will be used as the watermelon peel juice).
In a large pot, mix the watermelon rind with sugar, watermelon peel juice, and cloves. Bring it to a boil.
Lower the heat and simmer the mixture for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
Add the lemon juice and butter towards the end to give the jam a nice shine and balance the sweetness.
Let it cool and store in sterilized jars. This jam can be enjoyed with toast or as a sauce for desserts.
2. Watermelon Peel Pickles
Another fantastic way to reuse watermelon peels is by making pickles. They offer a crunchy, tangy alternative to traditional cucumber pickles and are perfect as a side dish or snack.
Ingredients:
Watermelon peels (white part only)
1 cup apple cider vinegar
½ cup sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 teaspoon peppercorns
1 clove garlic
Water
Instructions:
Remove the green skin from the watermelon peels and cut the white part into strips.
In a pot, combine vinegar, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and garlic. Bring to a boil.
Add the watermelon peels and boil for 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and let it cool. Once cool, transfer to jars and refrigerate. These pickles can be enjoyed after a few days and will last for weeks in the fridge.
3. Watermelon Peel Stir-fry
For a savory dish, watermelon peels can be stir-fried with other vegetables. Their neutral flavor absorbs the spices and sauces beautifully, making them a versatile ingredient in stir-fries.
