Looking for a unique and tangy treat this summer? This watermelon rind pickled with clove is sweet, spicy, and perfectly crunchy. Using the crisp watermelon rind, you can create a flavorful pickled watermelon that’s unlike any other. Try this easy pickled watermelon rinds recipe and enjoy a refreshing twist on a classic fruit.
I once had a big watermelon and didn’t know what to do with the rind. Instead of tossing it, I decided to try pickling it with ginger and clove. Well, I saw something similar ages ago on Tiktok. The result was crunchy, tangy, and slightly sweet, a snack that surprised me every time I tasted it.
Watermelon Rind Upcycling
Using the rind instead of tossing it feels like a small kitchen win. It’s amazing how much flavor you can extract from parts of food we usually ignore. This upcycling approach is simple, sustainable, and creative. It makes your cooking feel more resourceful and smart.
Perfect Summer Recipe
The pickled rind is cool and crisp, perfect for hot summer days. It pairs well with fresh drinks and light meals. Every bite gives a refreshing contrast to rich or spicy foods. It’s a recipe that always feels like a little celebration of the season.
Your Unique Type of Snack
Not everyone thinks of pickled watermelon rind as a snack, which makes it extra special. It’s crunchy, tangy, and just a little sweet, making it addictive. You can serve it at parties along with fried green tomatoes or enjoy it alone as a treat. It’s a snack that surprises everyone and becomes a conversation starter.
Your Easy-Peasy Guide to Pickled Watermelon Rinds
Pickled watermelon rinds are a sweet and tangy way to use every part of the fruit. This simple recipe transforms leftover rinds into a crunchy, flavorful snack or side dish.
Kitchen Must-Haves
- Chopping Board: A sturdy surface for safely prepping watermelon rind and spices.
- Sharp Knife: Perfect for peeling and cutting the rind into evenly sized pieces.
- Saucepan: Ideal for simmering the brine and infusing it with warm, spiced flavors.
Grab these Ingredients
- Watermelon Rind: Use the firm white part for pickling, giving a crisp texture.
- Water: Helps create the pickling brine to soak the rind evenly.
- Distilled White Vinegar: Adds the tangy flavor needed for classic pickles.
- Sugar: Balances the vinegar with a touch of sweetness in the brine.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning and helping the pickling process.
- Cinnamon Stick: Adds a warm, sweet spice that complements the rind.
- Cloves: Give a fragrant, slightly sweet, and spicy note to the pickles.
- Mustard Seeds: Add a mild heat and a subtle crunch to the pickling mix.
- Black Peppercorns: Provide a gentle peppery bite throughout the pickled rind.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a hint of heat in every bite.
- Ginger: Adds a fresh, zesty warmth that enhances the overall flavor.
*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Make Watermelon Rind Pickles
First: Prepare the Rind
Peel the tough green skin from the watermelon rind, leaving just the white part. Cut the white rind into 1-inch cubes so they pickle evenly. Set the pieces aside while you get your pot ready.
Second: Soften the Rind
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the rind cubes. Blanch them for about 5 minutes to soften and reduce any bitterness. Drain the cubes and keep them aside while you make the brine.
Third: Make the Spiced Brine
In the same pot, mix water, white vinegar, sugar, salt, cinnamon stick, cloves, mustard seeds, peppercorns, red pepper flakes (optional), and sliced ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This flavorful brine will infuse the rind with sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy notes.
Fourth: Simmer and Jar
Add the blanched rind to the hot brine and lower the heat. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the rind turns translucent. Transfer everything to a clean jar, let it cool, seal, and refrigerate for at least a day before serving.
Handy Tips for Tasty Wins:
- Use fresh watermelon rind for the best crunch and flavor. Make sure to remove the outer green skin before pickling.
- Add ginger and clove evenly so every bite has a balanced taste. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preference.
- Store pickled rind in a clean, airtight jar to keep it fresh longer. Refrigeration helps maintain its crispiness and flavor.
- Let the rind sit for at least a day before tasting. This allows the ginger and clove to fully infuse into the pickles.
Your Questions, My Answers
What are the Pairings to Try with Watermelon Rind Pickle?
Watermelon rind pickles go well with sandwiches and wraps for a tangy crunch. They can also be served alongside classic baked Italian chicken with garden vegetables or fried shrimp. Try pairing them with cheese boards for a unique sweet-and-spicy bite.
How to Store Watermelon Pickle?
Store the pickled rind in a clean, airtight jar to maintain freshness. Keep it refrigerated to preserve its crisp texture. Proper storage will also help the flavors stay vibrant for weeks.
Freezing is possible but may soften the texture slightly. Use a freezer-safe container or bag to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before using and enjoy the flavors even if the crunch is slightly reduced.
More Stress-Free Recipes You’ll Love
More stress-free recipes you’ll love with no bake cheesecake cups recipe, gluten free cupcakes with icing, and lavender-infused tea. These recipes are easy to make and perfect for busy days. No bake cheesecake cups are creamy and sweet without any oven time.
Gluten free cupcakes with icing are fun to make and great for sharing with friends. Lavender-infused tea is refreshing and can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Pin and Come Back Anytime
Need Support or have Questions? Join us on Facebook.
Follow us on Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok, Flipboard, or YouTube.
For weekly New Recipes and a FREE E-Book get into our NEWSLETTER.
Get the Printable Version
Show Some Love with a 5-Star Rating
Watermelon Rind Pickled with Ginger and Clove
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan
Ingredients
- 4 Cups Watermelon Rind trimmed, peeled and cut into 1-inch squares
- 1½ Cups Water
- 1 Cup White Vinegar distilled
- ¾ Cup Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Kosher Salt
- 1 Stick Cinnamon
- 3 Pieces Cloves
- 1 teaspoon Mustard Seeds
- 1 teaspoon Black Peppercorns
- ½ teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes optional
- 1 Inch Fresh Ginger fresh, slice
Instructions
- Peel off the green skin from the watermelon rind, leaving only the white part, and cut it into 1-inch cubes.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the rind, and blanch for 5 minutes to soften; drain and set aside.
- In the same pot, combine water, vinegar, sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves, mustard seeds, peppercorns, red pepper flakes, and ginger; stir and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the blanched rind, reduce heat, and simmer for 10–15 minutes until translucent, then transfer to a clean jar, cool, seal, and refrigerate for at least a day before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh watermelon rind for the best crunch and flavor. Make sure to remove the outer green skin before pickling.
- Add ginger and clove evenly so every bite has a balanced taste. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preference.
- Store pickled rind in a clean, airtight jar to keep it fresh longer. Refrigeration helps maintain its crispiness and flavor.
- Let the rind sit for at least a day before tasting. This allows the ginger and clove to fully infuse into the pickles.
Nutrition
Disclaimer
Please note that nutrient values are estimates only. Variations can occur due to product availability and manner of food preparation. Nutrition may vary based on methods of origin, preparation, freshness of ingredients, and other factors.
more simple sides to try
More simple sides to try can make your meals feel complete without extra effort. Think roasted vegetables, quick salads, sautéed greens, seasoned rice, buttered corn, or warm bread for easy, satisfying additions.
