Watermelons are a staple at picnics and BBQs, and we all love watching our kids dive into a big, sweet slice, their faces becoming instant smiley, sticky messes. But what about that green part that usually ends up in the compost or trash? Let’s slice in and find out what’s up with the watermelon rind!
The Short Answer
Yes, you can eat the rind of a watermelon! Surprised? Many people are. While it’s not as sweet and juicy as the pink flesh we all know and love, the rind is edible and even offers health benefits. But before you start munching on rinds, let’s understand a bit more about it.
What’s in the Rind?
The rind of a watermelon, which includes the white part and the green skin, is packed with nutrients. It contains vitamin C, vitamin B6, and vitamin A. It also has a high concentration of citrulline, an amino acid that can help improve blood flow and may have other health benefits.
How to Eat Watermelon Rind
So you’re ready to give it a try? Great! Watermelon rind can be eaten raw, but it’s quite tough and bland. Most people prefer it pickled, juiced, or cooked in some way. Here are a few ideas:
- Pickled Watermelon Rind: This is a classic Southern dish in the United States. The rind is soaked in a brine with vinegar, sugar, and spices, transforming it into a sweet and tangy treat.
- Watermelon Rind Curry: In some cultures, the rind is used as a vegetable in curries, adding texture and absorbing the flavors of the dish.
- Watermelon Rind Salad: Thinly sliced or grated watermelon rind can add a crunchy element to salads, much like cucumber.
- Watermelon Rind Preserves: Cook the rind with sugar and other ingredients to make a jam-like preserve.
Safety Considerations
While the rind is edible, there are a few safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Pesticides: If you’re not eating organic, the rind may have pesticide residue. Always wash the watermelon thoroughly before slicing into it.
- Digestive Issues: Because the rind is more fibrous than the flesh, it might be harder to digest for some people. Start with a small amount to see how your body reacts.
- Allergies: Though rare, some people might be allergic to watermelon, including its rind. If you experience any adverse reactions, stop eating it immediately.
What Does the Science Say?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), watermelon is a safe and healthy fruit to enjoy. However, they don’t provide specific guidelines on eating the rind. Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) focuses on the importance of washing fruits and vegetables to remove potential pathogens and reduce pesticide residue.
In the Kitchen with Watermelon Rind
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try incorporating watermelon rind into your meals, here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Simple Pickled Watermelon Rind
Ingredients:
- 4 cups watermelon rind, green skin removed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon allspice berries
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
- Place the watermelon rind in a large bowl and set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Pour the hot brine over the watermelon rind in the bowl.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a jar and refrigerate.
- The pickled rind will be ready to eat in a few days and will keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Key Takeaways
- Yes, You Can: The rind of a watermelon is edible and can be a nutritious part of your diet.
- Nutritious and Beneficial: Packed with vitamins and citrulline, the rind can offer health benefits.
- Variety of Uses: From pickling to curries, there are numerous ways to prepare and enjoy watermelon rind.
- Safety First: Always wash the watermelon thoroughly, and start with small amounts to see how you digest it.
- Check for Allergies: Be mindful of potential allergies and stop consumption if you experience any adverse reactions.
