Watermelon Rind Jam Recipe
Food waste is a growing concern worldwide, and it's time we get creative in the kitchen to minimize our impact on the planet. One surprising way to reduce waste and whip up something delicious is by making watermelon rind jam! Yes, you heard that right – you can turn the often-discarded white part of watermelon rinds into a sweet and tangy jam with just a few simple ingredients. Not only is this a fantastic way to reduce food waste, but it's also a delightful addition to your breakfast table. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the process of making this eco-friendly jam, step by step.
Ingredients:
The white part of one medium-sized watermelon rind (about 2 cups), chopped into small pieces
1 apple cored, and diced
Juice of 1/6 of a lemon
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1/2 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Watermelon Rind:
Start by removing the green skin from the watermelon rind and cut it into small, uniform pieces. You want to use only the white part, which is often discarded.
2. Boil the Watermelon Rind:
Place the chopped watermelon rind in a saucepan, add the water, and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rinds are tender.
3. Add the Apple:
After the rinds are tender, add the diced apple to the saucepan and continue to cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the apple softens.
4. Sweeten and Flavor:
Stir in the sugar and lemon juice. Adjust the sugar quantity according to your taste preferences. The lemon juice adds a delightful tang to the jam.
5. Thicken with Chia Seeds:
Remove the saucepan from the heat, and while it's still hot, stir in the chia seeds. They will absorb the excess liquid and help thicken the jam.
Allow the mixture to cool for about 15-20 minutes, which will give the chia seeds time to work their magic.
6. Blend (Optional):
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the jam. Be sure to let it cool slightly before blending.
7. Store and Enjoy:
Transfer your watermelon rind jam to a clean, airtight jar or container and refrigerate. It will keep for up to two weeks.
Now you have a unique and sustainable jam that not only reduces food waste but also tastes fantastic on toast, in yogurt, or as a topping for desserts. Plus, it's a small but meaningful step towards a more environmentally friendly kitchen. Enjoy your homemade Watermelon Rind Jam, and feel good about doing your part for the planet!
Remember, reducing food waste can be both fun and delicious, so get creative in your kitchen and see how you can transform kitchen scraps into culinary delights. Your taste buds and the planet will thank you!
