Transform Watermelon Rind into Sweet Candy Bliss Recipe

Introduction

Transforming watermelon rind into a sweet candy is a delightful way to reduce waste and enjoy a unique treat. This recipe turns the usually discarded white part into flavorful, spiced candy that’s perfect for snacking or gifting.

Ingredients

• 4 cups watermelon rind (white part only, peeled and diced)
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar (or sugar alternative)
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or fresh ginger for more intensity)
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (almond extract as an alternative)
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (lime zest can be substituted)
• 1 pinch salt (optional, to balance sweetness)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Peel the watermelon rind thoroughly to remove the green outer skin and cut the white part into small cubes, measuring about 4 cups.
2. Step 2: In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves.
3. Step 3: Add the diced watermelon rind, ground ginger, ground cloves, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and salt to the saucepan. Stir gently to combine.
4. Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Step 5: Once the rind is tender and translucent, remove the pan from the heat. Let the watermelon rind cool in the syrup for a few hours to absorb flavors.
6. Step 6: Drain the syrup and spread the candied rind pieces on parchment paper to dry. Allow them to dry until firm but still slightly sticky before serving or storing.

Tips & Variations

• For a stronger spice flavor, use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger.
• Try almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty twist.
• Adjust the amount of lemon or lime zest to brighten the flavor as desired.
• Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.
• Use organic sugar alternatives such as coconut sugar or maple syrup, but adjust simmering time as needed.

Storage

Store the dried watermelon rind candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. If the candy becomes too hard, allow it to come to room temperature before enjoying. Reheating is not necessary.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use the green part of the watermelon rind?

No, the green outer skin is too tough and bitter for candy making. Only the white part of the rind should be used for this recipe.

How do I know when the candy is done drying?

The candy is ready when the pieces feel firm but still slightly sticky to the touch. They should not be wet or overly soft, which means more drying time is needed.

Transform Watermelon Rind into Sweet Candy Bliss Recipe

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4.4 from 115 reviews

Delight in a unique and sweet treat by transforming watermelon rind into a flavorful candy. This recipe uses the often-discarded white part of the watermelon rind simmered in a spiced sugar syrup, resulting in a chewy, aromatic candy that offers an innovative way to reduce waste and enjoy a refreshing homemade confection.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours (including cooling and drying time)
• Yield: About 20 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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For the Candy Base

• 4 cups Watermelon Rind (use only the white part, peeled and diced)
• 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar (consider sugar alternatives if desired)
• 1 cup Water (for dissolving the sugar)

For Flavor Enhancement

• 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (fresh ginger can be used for more intensity)
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cloves (optional but enhances flavor complexity)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (almond extract is a good alternative)
• 1 tablespoon Lemon Zest (can substitute with lime zest)
• 1 pinch Salt (optional for balancing sweetness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rind: Begin by peeling the watermelon rind thoroughly to remove the green outer skin and any pink flesh, leaving only the white part. Dice this white rind into small cubes, measuring about 4 cups.
2. Create Sugar Syrup: In a large saucepan, combine 1 ½ cups granulated sugar with 1 cup water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves, forming a clear syrup.
3. Add Flavor and Rind: Gently stir in the diced watermelon rind, ground ginger, ground cloves, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt into the syrup, mixing well to incorporate all flavors.
4. Simmer the Mixture: Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for approximately 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the rind becomes tender and the syrup thickens.
5. Cool and Dry: Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and let the candy cool in the syrup for a few hours, which allows the flavors to meld. Then, transfer the rind pieces onto parchment paper to dry further until they reach a chewy candy consistency.

Notes

• Peel the watermelon rind thoroughly to eliminate any bitterness from the green outer skin or residual pink flesh.
• Adjust spices to taste to create your desired flavor profile; fresh ginger can be used for a stronger kick.
• Consider using sugar alternatives like honey or maple syrup to lower the glycemic impact.
• Drying time can vary depending on humidity—ensure the candy is sufficiently dried before storing to prevent stickiness.

Keywords: Watermelon rind candy, watermelon candy, homemade candy, fruit rind recipe, sweet preserved fruit, watermelon sweets