Introduction
When you think of eating watermelon, the juicy pink flesh is probably what comes to mind. But did you know that the rind can be eaten too? Not only can consuming the rind help reduce food waste, but it also has several potential health benefits. This article will explore the topic of eating watermelon rind, including its nutritional value, creative ways to cook with it, and tips for safely preparing and storing it.
Health Benefits of Eating Watermelon Rind
The watermelon rind might not be as tasty as the flesh, but it contains several essential nutrients. It’s a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium, and also contains citrulline, an amino acid that can help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. Additionally, watermelon rind contains fiber, which can help with digestion and keeping you feeling full.
Creative Ways to Cook with Watermelon Rind
If you’re not used to eating watermelon rind, you might be wondering how to incorporate it into your meals. One common way to consume the rind is through pickling – either by itself or with other vegetables. You can also thinly slice the rind and add it to salads or stir-fries for an extra crunch. For those who are feeling more adventurous, try using watermelon rind in soups or stews. Here are a few recipes to get you started:
Watermelon Rind Stir-Fry
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small piece ginger, grated
- 1 cup watermelon rind, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Directions: Heat the oil in a wok or skillet over high heat. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the watermelon rind and bell peppers and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir-fry until well coated.
Watermelon Rind Pickles
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 6 cups watermelon rind, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
Directions: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the watermelon rind and the hot pickling liquid. Let cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Why You Shouldn’t Eat Watermelon Rind
While there are many potential benefits to eating watermelon rind, there are also some concerns to keep in mind. The rind can be quite bitter, especially if it’s not prepared properly. Additionally, the texture can be tough and difficult to chew, so it’s important to slice it thinly or cook it until it’s softened. Lastly, be sure to avoid consuming the outer green layer of the rind, as it can be tough and unpalatable.
How to Properly Prepare and Store Watermelon Rind
Before using watermelon rind in cooking, it’s important to properly prepare it. Rinse the rind thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, remove the outer green layer of the rind. You can then slice or chop the remaining white part of the rind as desired.
If you’re not planning to use the watermelon rind right away, it’s important to store it properly to prevent spoilage. You can wrap sliced watermelon rind in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Alternatively, you can freeze the rind for later use by blanching it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Why Eating Watermelon Rind is Environmentally Friendly
One of the biggest benefits of eating watermelon rind is that it helps reduce food waste. Many people simply discard the rind when they’re done eating the flesh, but by consuming the entire fruit, we can minimize our impact on the environment. Additionally, using food scraps in cooking can help you save money and get creative in the kitchen.
Conclusion
While eating watermelon rind might not be for everyone, there are several good reasons to give it a try. Whether you’re looking to improve your health, reduce food waste, or experiment with new recipes, the watermelon rind is a versatile and often overlooked ingredient that can add flavor and nutrition to your meals. So next time you’re enjoying some juicy watermelon, consider saving the rind for a delicious and environmentally-friendly treat.