Watermelon Rind Preserves

This is an old recipe. Select melons with thick rinds. You will need to check with your local extension office for processing times.

• Preparation Time: 30 mins
• Cooking Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
• Calories: 119 Calories

Ingredients

• 8 cups water
• 1 gallon water
• 1 dash red food coloring
• 9 cups white sugar
• ½ cup salt
• 4 pounds chopped watermelon rind
• 4 teaspoons crushed cinnamon stick
• 4 teaspoons ground cloves
• 4 lemons - rinsed, sliced and seeded

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Peel off the green part of the watermelon rind, and slice into 2 inch pieces. Soak the rind in a solution of 1 gallon water and 1/2 cup salt overnight.

Step 2

Remove rind from the salt water, and place in a stockpot with clean water to cover. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the rind is tender. Drain.

Step 3

In a large pot, combine the sugar, 8 cups water, and sliced lemons. Tie the cinnamon and cloves into a cheesecloth bag, and place in the pot. Bring the syrup to a boil, and boil for 5 minutes. Add the rinds, and cook until transparent. Remove spice bag. Stir in red food coloring, if using. Ladle preserves into hot sterile jars, and process to seal.