Candied Watermelon Rinds

Transforming leftover watermelon rinds into candied treats is a fun way to minimize waste while adding a delicious twist to your snacks. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at the leftover rind after devouring slices of juicy watermelon, you may have wondered what to do with it. Instead of tossing it, consider making candied watermelon rinds! This recipe not only showcases how to make the most of every part of this summer favorite but also creates a sweet, chewy confection that surprises many. The process is simple and brings a touch of nostalgia to the table, reminding us of childhood summers filled with bright, refreshing flavors. Plus, your creativity can shine through as you customize flavors, adding your personal touch. So, let’s get started and turn those often-overlooked rinds into a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy!

Why This Recipe Works

Using leftover watermelon rind to create candied treats is all about optimizing what we already have. This recipe not only reduces waste but also introduces a unique flavor experience. The lengthy soaking and simmering processes are key. They help transform the rind’s texture, making it tender and sweet, while adding a hint of citrus brightens the overall flavor. The result? A delightful candy that’s both chewy and refreshing, making it perfect for warm weather!

Why You’ll Love This Candied Watermelon Rinds

This recipe is straightforward and allows for plenty of room for creativity, letting you play with flavors and spices. Whether you’re looking for a new snack or a spirited addition to desserts, candied watermelon rinds bring something special to the table. Plus, there’s a nostalgic charm to candying fruits. It’s like giving your favorite summertime fruit a playful makeover, making it fun to share with family and friends.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your candied watermelon rinds:

• 6 cups watermelon rind, cut into 2-inch strips with minimal green skin (a little pink is acceptable)
• 6 cups water
• 1 ½ tablespoons salt
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 lemon, zested

Preparing the Rind

Soaking the Rind

Start by preparing the watermelon rind. In a large bowl, combine the rind, 6 cups of water, and salt. Stir the mixture until the rind is completely submerged. It’s crucial to cover the bowl and refrigerate it for at least 8 hours or overnight. This soaking step helps draw out bitterness, ensuring your candied watermelon rinds taste sweet and enjoyable.

Simmering the Rind

Cooking until Translucent

After the rind has soaked, drain it and rinse it with cold water. Next, place it in a large saucepan and cover with fresh cold water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about an hour, or until the rind becomes translucent. When it’s ready, drain and set it aside. The translucent texture is a sign that you’re on the right track.

Making the Syrup

Creating the Sweet Base

Now it’s time to whip up the syrup that will transform the rind into candy. In the same saucepan, mix granulated sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Heat it over medium while stirring until the sugar completely dissolves and the mixture starts to boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. This sweet base is crucial for coating the watermelon rind beautifully.

Candied Rind Process

Coating the Rind

With your syrup ready, add the translucent watermelon rind back into the saucepan. Gently stir it to ensure it’s coated nicely. Simmer for another 20 minutes, ensuring the rind is fully immersed. This allows the flavors of the syrup to infuse into the rind, making it sweet and delicious. Keep an eye on the mixture, as the syrup will thicken further during this time.

Drying the Candied Rind

Baking for Texture

Once the candied rind is ready, it’s time to create that chewy texture. Preheat your oven to its lowest setting, which is about 175°F (80°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the candied watermelon rind in a single layer on the sheet. Bake for 2 to 3 hours, flipping the pieces occasionally. The goal is to make them chewy while allowing the syrup to dry slightly. The result will be candy that’s easy to enjoy!

Cooling and Storing the Candied Rind

Final Steps

After baking, transfer your candied watermelon rind to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, store the candy in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for up to a week, though they might not last that long because they’re so tasty!

Serving Suggestions

Candied watermelon rinds can be enjoyed alone as a unique snack or used to elevate your desserts. Consider adding them to salads, cakes, or even as a topping for ice cream. Their sweet and chewy texture will surprise your guests and feed their curiosity!

Tips for Success

To ensure your candied rinds have the best flavor and texture, soak them well. This step allows more flavor to seep into the rind, making it tender and sweet. If you love a stronger lemon flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of lemon zest in the recipe!

Variations

Experimenting with flavors can take your candied watermelon rinds to the next level. Adding warming spices like cinnamon or ginger during the syrup preparation can introduce a lovely complexity. You might also try substituting different citrus fruits, such as oranges or limes, to create a variety of flavors that keep things exciting.

FAQs

Can I use whole watermelon rinds?
Yes! Just remember to remove the green skin for a better texture in your candy.

How long do the candied rinds last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature.

Can I freeze the candied watermelon rinds?
Absolutely! They can be frozen—just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

What can I do with leftover syrup?
Don’t let that delicious syrup go to waste! Try drizzling it over pancakes, yogurt, or mixing it into drinks for a sweet kick.

How can I add more flavor to the rinds?
Adding spices or extracts like vanilla or almond during syrup preparation can add a new depth of flavor to the candy.

Creating your own candied watermelon rinds not only saves food from waste but also opens doors to culinary creativity. With a bit of time and love, this delightful recipe offers you sweet bites that can remind you of summer long after the season ends. Enjoy sharing these charming treats with others or simply savoring them on your own!

Print