Watermelon Rind Jam

Sweet, fragrant preserves made from an unexpected part of the watermelon

This unusual jam may sound a little exotic at first - but it is much more delicious than you might expect.

Watermelon rind jam is made from the white inner part of the watermelon rind, which is usually thrown away. The jam is sweet but not overly sugary, with a delicate aroma and a lovely citrus note from fresh lemon juice.

And those little golden pieces of watermelon rind? They become wonderfully translucent and make a beautiful addition to desserts.

Ingredients

• 1 kg watermelon rind

• 800 g sugar

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 1 tsp baking soda

Instructions

Prepare the watermelon rind

Using a sharp knife, remove the green outer skin from the watermelon rind. You can also leave it on if you prefer. Cut the rind into small, evenly sized pieces.

Dissolve the baking soda in 1 cup hot water, then add 5 cups cold water. Pour the solution over the watermelon rind and leave to soak for 4 hours.

Drain the rind in a colander and rinse thoroughly.

Add the sugar

Transfer the rinsed rind to a large bowl and cover with the sugar. Leave for several hours so the sugar can draw out the juices. You can also leave it overnight in the refrigerator - by morning, there should be plenty of syrup in the bowl.

Cook the jam

Transfer the watermelon rind and all the syrup to a large saucepan or jam pot. Add the lemon juice and place over low heat.

Bring slowly to a boil, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.

Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer gently for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let the jam cool completely.

Repeat the same process once more: bring to a boil, simmer for 5 minutes, then let cool completely.

For the third and final cooking, bring the jam to a boil again and simmer for 10–15 minutes.

While the jam is still boiling hot, carefully ladle it into the prepared jars, filling them almost to the top. Seal with the lids, turn the jars upside down, and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Leave until completely cool, then turn upright and store in a cool, dark place.

Prepare the jars

Wash the jars thoroughly. Fill them with boiling water to the rim and leave for 10-15 minutes. Pour boiling water over the lids as well.

Drain the jars and lids and place them upside down on a clean kitchen towel. Let them dry completely before filling with jam.

How to Serve

This unusual watermelon rind jam is delicious with sweet casseroles, pancakes, and fritters.

The fragrant syrup can also be used to soak cake layers, while the translucent golden pieces of rind make a beautiful decoration for cakes, pastries, and other desserts.