Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups watermelon rind, peeled and cut into small pieces
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1 tsp whole allspice berries
- 1 tsp salt
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Canning funnel
- Jar lifter
- Magnetic lid lifter
- Bubble remover tool
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the watermelon rind, sugar, vinegar, cinnamon stick, cloves, allspice berries, and salt. Stir to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
4. After 1 hour, remove the cinnamon stick, cloves, and allspice berries from the mixture.
5. Increase the heat to medium-high and cook the mixture for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has thickened and the watermelon rind is translucent.
6. While the mixture is cooking, prepare the canning jars by sterilizing them in boiling water for 10 minutes.
7. Using a canning funnel, ladle the hot preserves into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
8. Use a bubble remover tool to remove any air bubbles from the jars.
9. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth, and place the lids and bands on the jars.
10. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
11. After processing, remove the jars from the water bath using a jar lifter and let them cool on a towel-lined countertop.
- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for boiling
- Low heat for simmering
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 4 cups of preserves
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 80 per 2 tbsp serving
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 50mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Apple cider vinegar can be used instead of white vinegar
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon, cloves, and allspice can be used instead of whole spices
Variations:
- Add chopped ginger to the mixture for a spicy kick
- Use honey instead of sugar for a healthier option
- Add diced jalapenos for a sweet and spicy flavor
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to remove the outer green layer of the watermelon rind before using it in the recipe
- Cut the rind into small, uniform pieces for even cooking
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the mixture reaches the proper temperature for canning
- Store the preserves in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year
Storage instructions:
- Store the canned preserves in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year
Reheating instructions:
- The preserves can be reheated in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the preserves on a cheese board with crackers and sliced fruit
- Use the preserves as a glaze for grilled chicken or pork
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, such as mint or basil, over the preserves for a pop of color and flavor
Pairings:
- Serve the preserves with cheese, such as brie or goat cheese
- Pair the preserves with grilled meats or roasted vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the preserves alongside a salad or sandwich for a sweet and tangy addition
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the preserves are too thick, add a splash of water or vinegar to thin them out
- If the preserves are too thin, cook them for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken the liquid
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to follow proper canning procedures to ensure the preserves are safe to eat
- Discard any jars that do not seal properly
Food history:
- Watermelon rind preserves have been a popular Southern treat for generations, dating back to the 1800s
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet and tangy with warm spices
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the preserves as a condiment or topping for a variety of dishes
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