Watermelon is one of the most refreshing and beloved fruits of the summer. But what if you could enjoy its flavor even during the coldest days of winter? With a bit of preparation and care, you can preserve watermelon in two delicious ways — as whole pieces in jars and as a refreshing juice — and store them for long-term use.
Below you’ll find two easy and original methods to preserve watermelon: one that keeps the fruit intact for snacking, and one that turns it into a sweet, tangy juice. Both recipes are homemade, practical, and require only a few simple ingredients.
1. Preserved Watermelon Chunks in Jars
This method allows you to enjoy bite-sized watermelon pieces with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor — perfect as a treat or even in cold desserts.
Ingredients:
- 1 large watermelon (firm and fresh)
- Boiled water (enough to fill jars)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar (per jar)
- 2 tablespoons of salt (per jar)
- 2 teaspoons of citric acid (per jar)
- Clean glass jars with new lids (2.5-liter jars are ideal)
Instructions:
Step 1: Clean the Watermelon
Start by washing the outside of the watermelon thoroughly using a bit of bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) and water. This ensures any dirt or contaminants on the rind are removed before slicing.
Step 2: Slice and Cube the Watermelon
Cut the watermelon in half, then into large slices. From these slices, remove the rind and cut the red, juicy flesh into medium-sized chunks. Make sure the pieces can fit easily into your jars.
Step 3: Pack into Jars
Place the watermelon pieces tightly into clean and dry glass jars. Fill each jar to the top, leaving a little space for the dressing.
Step 4: Preheat with Boiled Water
Pour boiling water into each jar until filled. Cover each jar loosely with a lid and let it sit for 20 minutes. This step softens the fruit and prepares it for preservation.
Step 5: Prepare the Dressing
After 20 minutes, carefully pour the water from the jars into a large pan. For each jar, add:
- 6 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of salt
- 2 teaspoons of citric acid
Stir and bring the mixture to a boil. This will become the preservation liquid.
Step 6: Final Fill and Seal
Once the dressing has boiled, pour it back into the jars, filling them completely. Immediately seal the jars with new, sterilized lids.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Allow the jars to cool gradually at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in a dark, cool place — such as a pantry or cellar. Properly sealed, the jars can last for several months, and you’ll be able to enjoy watermelon all year round.
2. Homemade Preserved Watermelon Juice
This second method turns fresh watermelon into a sweet, tangy juice that can be enjoyed on its own or used in smoothies and cocktails throughout the year.
Ingredients:
- Red flesh from 1 large watermelon
- Juice from 2 lemons
- Sterilized bottles and lids (preferably glass)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
After washing the watermelon, slice it in half and remove the red flesh. You won’t need the rind for this recipe. Cut the flesh into smaller cubes.
Step 2: Blend and Strain
Add the watermelon cubes to a blender and blend until smooth. Once blended, strain the juice through a fine sieve into a deep pot to remove any seeds and excess pulp. This step is important to ensure a clean, smooth juice.
Step 3: Add Lemon Juice
Squeeze the juice from two fresh lemons and add it to the strained watermelon juice. This adds a bright, citrusy flavor and helps with preservation.
Step 4: Heat and Skim
Place the pot on the stove and bring the juice to a gentle boil. During boiling, foam will rise to the surface — carefully skim this off using a spoon. Continue until the juice is clear and has no more foam.
Step 5: Sterilize Bottles and Lids
While the juice is boiling, prepare your storage containers.
- Sterilize the bottles by heating them in the oven at 100°C (212°F) for 30 minutes.
- Boil the lids in water for 15 minutes to ensure they are safe and clean.
Step 6: Bottle the Juice
Once the juice is ready, pour it hot into the sterilized bottles. Seal them immediately with the sterilized lids to create a vacuum seal.
Step 7: Cool and Store
Let the bottles cool slowly at room temperature. After cooling, keep them in a cool, dark place. The juice will stay fresh for several months and makes a perfect refreshment in any season.
Tips for Best Results:
- Choose a watermelon that is firm, ripe, and free from bruises.
- Always sterilize jars and bottles properly to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Label your jars and bottles with the date of preparation so you can keep track of shelf life.
- Store preserved items in a place away from direct sunlight and heat for maximum shelf stability.
Final Thoughts
These two homemade methods are not only practical, but they also allow you to savor the sweet taste of watermelon long after summer has passed. Whether you’re in the mood for juicy chunks or a glass of refreshing juice, these simple preservation techniques make it possible.
Disclaimer: If you have any health conditions or dietary restrictions, consult a healthcare professional before consuming homemade preserved foods, especially those using sugar, salt, or acidifiers. Always check the seal and smell before opening a preserved jar or bottle. If in doubt, discard it.
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