Fermented Watermelon Rind Pickles and Relish

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to use up that leftover watermelon rind, then you’re in for a treat with this recipe for Fermented Watermelon Rind Pickles and Relish! This is one of those dishes that not only helps reduce food waste but also brings vibrant flavors to your table. I love making these pickles during the summer when watermelons are abundant. They add a delightful crunch and tang to sandwiches, salads, or even as a snack on their own. Plus, they’re perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights when you want something quick and tasty.

The beauty of fermented watermelon rind pickles is that they develop their flavor over time, so it’s like having a little science project bubbling away in your kitchen! It’s incredibly rewarding to see how something so simple can transform into something so special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious pickles ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love the crunchy texture and slightly sweet and sour flavor, making it a hit at family meals.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance, let them ferment, and enjoy them whenever you like!
• Versatile Use: Enjoy them as pickles or turn them into relish for burgers, hot dogs, or salads.
• Waste Not, Want Not: Make use of every part of the watermelon without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to get started on your Fermented Watermelon Rind Pickles and Relish:

• 300 grams watermelon rind, chopped
• 400 grams water
• 25 grams sea salt

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and spices. Here are some fun ideas to personalize your pickles:

• Add Some Heat: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
• Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh dill or thyme for an herby twist.
• Sweeten It Up: Substitute honey with maple syrup if you’re looking for a different sweetness profile.
• Citrus Zest: Add some lemon or lime zest before fermentation for a bright citrus note.

How to Make Fermented Watermelon Rind Pickles and Relish

Step 1: Prepare Your Equipment

Start by gathering your fermentation equipment. This recipe works best with a 32-ounce wide-mouth jar. Make sure everything is clean! Wash all your equipment—your jar, weight, and lid—to avoid introducing any unwanted bacteria into the mix.

Step 2: Prep the Watermelon Rind

Next up, wash your watermelon rind under cool water. Then, using a vegetable peeler, carefully peel off the outer skin. I found that peeling gives the pickles a better texture since the skin can be quite chewy. Slice the rind into your desired shape; whether you prefer slices or chunks is entirely up to you!

Step 3: Weigh Your Ingredients

Using your kitchen scale makes it easy to measure out exactly what you need. Tare/zero your scale with an empty mixing bowl on it before weighing out the chopped watermelon rind. Once you have 300 grams ready, add it to your jar along with 400 grams of water.

Step 4: Add Salt and Spices

Weigh out 25 grams of sea salt and add it to the jar containing the watermelon rind and water mixture. If you’re planning on adding dry spices like peppercorns or garlic powder, consider placing them in cheesecloth or a tea bag first. This way, they’ll infuse without floating around in your brine.

Step 5: Shake It Up!

Secure the lid on your jar tightly and give it a good shake for about two minutes. This will help dissolve all that salt into the liquid—making sure every piece of rind gets that delicious salty goodness!

Step 6: Submerge and Ferment

After shaking, remove the lid and place your fermentation weight inside the jar. The weight should keep all pieces of rind submerged beneath the liquid—this is key for proper fermentation! Secure everything back together and let it sit at room temperature for about 14 days. Place it in a glass dish just in case there are any spills!

Step 7: Taste Test Time

After two weeks have passed, check on your pickles! Remove the fermentation weight and give them a smell and taste test—you’re looking for that pleasantly sour aroma paired with tartness from the rinds.

Step 8: Make Into Relish (Optional)

If you’re feeling adventurous (and I always encourage that!), strain out some brine from your fermented watermelon rinds. Finely mince them along with half an onion before mixing everything together with apple vinegar, honey, and reserved brine.

Step 9: Store Your Creation

Transfer your relish into an airtight container and store it in the fridge. Enjoy it as a topping on burgers or salads—it’s sure to impress everyone at your next gathering!

By following these steps closely while keeping things light-hearted in the kitchen, you’ll find yourself enjoying homemade fermented watermelon rind pickles and relish in no time at all!

Pro Tips for Making Fermented Watermelon Rind Pickles and Relish

Making fermented watermelon rind pickles and relish is a delightful journey, and a few tips can make your experience even better!

• Choose ripe watermelon: Selecting a ripe, juicy watermelon ensures that the rind has the right texture and flavor for fermentation. A fresh, flavorful rind contributes to the overall success of your pickles.

• Use filtered water: Opting for filtered water helps avoid chlorine and other impurities that might interfere with the fermentation process. Clean water creates a better environment for those beneficial bacteria to thrive!

• Keep it cool but not cold: While fermentation thrives at room temperature, keeping your jar in a slightly cooler spot (like in a pantry) can slow down the process if you’re in a warm climate. This helps prevent over-fermentation and keeps flavors balanced.

• Taste test along the way: Don’t hesitate to sample your pickles as they ferment! This will give you insight into the development of flavors and help you determine when they reach your preferred tartness.

• Label your jars: If you’re making multiple batches or trying different variations, labeling your jars with the date will help you keep track of fermentation time. This way, you’ll always know when it’s time to taste!

How to Serve Fermented Watermelon Rind Pickles and Relish

Fermented watermelon rind pickles and relish are incredibly versatile! They can be enjoyed on their own or as a flavorful addition to various dishes.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped cilantro or parsley over your pickles for a burst of freshness that complements their tangy flavor.
• Toasted sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that elevates your dish.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers loaded with seasonal vegetables add a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the pickles.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta brings a lightness that balances the richness of any meal.
• Savory Oatmeal Cakes: These hearty cakes provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor, serving as a great base for topping with fermented delights.
• Crispy Baked Tofu: Seasoned baked tofu offers protein-packed goodness with crispy edges, making it an excellent companion for the sour crunch of your pickles.

Enjoy experimenting with these ideas to create vibrant meals that highlight your delicious fermented watermelon rind pickles and relish!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch of these delicious fermented watermelon rind pickles and relish, ensuring you have a tasty addition to your meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the fermented watermelon rind pickles in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They can last for several weeks, allowing you to enjoy them over time.

Freezing

• While freezing is not typically recommended for fermented items due to texture changes, you can freeze the relish.
• Portion it into small containers or freezer bags for easy use later.

Reheating

• If using the relish, simply take out the desired amount and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• No reheating is necessary; enjoy it cold on your favorite dishes!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Fermented Watermelon Rind Pickles and Relish:

How long does it take to make Fermented Watermelon Rind Pickles?

It takes about 14 days for your fermented watermelon rind pickles to reach the perfect flavor. After that, you can enjoy them immediately or turn them into relish!

Can I eat Fermented Watermelon Rind Pickles right away?

While you can taste them after a few days, it’s best to wait for the full 14-day fermentation period to develop that tangy flavor profile you’re looking for.

What can I use Fermented Watermelon Rind Relish on?

This relish is incredibly versatile! Use it on burgers, hot dogs, salads, or even mix it into chicken salad for a zesty twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Fermented Watermelon Rind Pickles and Relish! Not only do they minimize waste by using every part of the watermelon, but they also bring a delightful crunch and tanginess to your meals. Experiment with flavors and enjoy this unique recipe. Happy fermenting!