Watermelon Rind Pickles

We love these Watermelon Rind Pickles that leave the slightest bit of red flesh for a beautiful color and taste experience!

Yield: about 4 cups (1L)

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon coarse salt
• 2 cups peeled watermelon rind*
• 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 each allspice berry
• 1/2 cup cider vinegar
• 4 peppercorns
• 4 whole cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon pickling spice
• 1 long slice fresh ginger root
• 1/4 teaspoon celery seeds

Instructions

1. In large pot, bring water and salt to boil over medium high heat. Add rind pieces and boil until tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Strain. Transfer rinds to a large metal bowl.
3. In saucepan, combine sugar, cider vinegar, peppercorns, cloves, pickling spice and gingerroot. Bring to a boil over medium high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 15 minutes, until slightly reduced.
4. Pour over watermelon rinds in bowl. Place plate over top to keep rinds submerged in liquid.
5. Cover and refrigerate for one day.
6. Transfer to a glass jar and keep sealed in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

* Leave a thin layer of pink; cut into 1 x 1/2 x 2 inch pieces.

Enjoy with your favorite deli meats and cheeses, perhaps with other pickled veggies for a tasting party.

Attribution

Recipe and photo used with permission from: National Watermelon Board
Created by Chef Dave Wooley.