Friday, July 19, 2013

Watermelon Rind Sweet Pickles

I have not been exactly idle, working and hot weather notwithstanding...

About 3 years ago I read a lovely recipe for Watermelon Rind Sweet Pickles.  Having always loved these special and rather old-fashioned pickles, I decided to try my hand.  I am a pretty good cook, not afraid to try new things, and am usually satisfied with the result.  Practice makes perfect, in all things, and making pickles is no exception.  I am far from perfect, and continue to practice....

Watermelon Rind Sweet Pickles don't require the weeks of soaking in brine which is often the case with dill pickles, which cuts down on the time element.  Getting the sweet brine just right is another issue, sometimes it is too vinegary no matter what I do....a little of this and a little of that, a few more whole cloves, a little less cinnamon - and it comes out OK.

Thanks to several friends who offered me their watermelon rind (most had never heard of these pickles, but had faith in my desire to make them)

The process begins - peeling, more peeling, and slicing - 


 The first cooking bath -

Cookin' in the sweet brine...looks alot like the 1st bath, but with spices this time -



 ta da...Finished Product -
It is hard to see those little pickled squares of rind inside the jars, but they're there.  This batch is four 1/2 pints (jelly jar size) and some "left overs" which will be devoured soon enough.

The next batch awaits.  But it is just too hot to remain in the kitchen any longer today.

1 comment:

  1. I adore watermelon rind pickles! I really should try making some. Yours look wonderful!!

    Mokihana

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