That’s right, watermelon rind pickles are this month’s featured product and prize. What are watermelon rind pickles, you ask? They’re exactly what they sound like – bits of watermelon rind pickled in a very sweet and sometimes spicy brine.
These particular watermelon rind pickles are made by New Braunfels Smokehouse and will be delivered to the winner in a 21-ounce jar. The website describes the rinds thusly: “Reminiscent of that childhood summer spent at grandma’s, these crisp watermelon rind pickles radiate with rich translucence and sweet, heavenly flavor.”
It should be noted that the folks at New Braunfels Smokehouse know a thing or two about pickling things. They also offer pickled okra and squash pickles, in addition to a vast assortment of smoked meats, of course.
Honestly, I’ve never had watermelon rind pickles, but I’m dying to try them, so if you win this prize, you have to email me and let me know how they are.
My mom makes watermelon rind pickles every year. Her recipe is slightly different than the one available for prize, though, as her recipe calls for food coloring to change the color to red or green. I suppose you could use whatever color you would like. Maybe even that illusive blue color for which we’ve been searching in the watermelon patches! :0)
Here’s the recipe, in case you’d like to give making some for yourself a whirl! You will have to let us know what you think if you try them!
WATERMELON PICKLES
RIND of one large watermelon. Peel and remove all green and pink portions from the rind. Cut in one inch cubes and soak overnight in salt water (four tablespoons salt to one quart of water).
Drain, cover with fresh water and cook until almost tender. Drain the watermelon and make a syrup of 8 cups of sugar, 4 cups of vinegar, 8 teaspoons of whole cloves, 16 sticks of cinnamon and a little mustard seed. (Tie spices in cheesecloth bag.) Heat the syrup and spices to boiling and allow to set for 15 minutes. Add the drained rind and cook until clear and transparent. A few minutes before boiling time is up, add enough green or red food coloring to give desired color to the pickle. Pack boiling hot into sterilized Kerr jars to within 1/2 inch of top. Put on cap, screw band firmly tight. Process in Boiling Water Bath 5 minutes. Yield: 6 pints
Thanks for the recipe, Dee! One of my goals this year is to make my own watermelon rind pickles and I’ll put this recipe to the test when I do.
I like the idea of using food coloring to give the rind pickles some color too. The only question is, which color do I give them!
Watermelo Guy,
I’ve had Watermelon Rind Pickles and they are delicious.
MMMMMMMM sure hope I win this prize.
You’re most welcome! You will have to post and let us know what color you choose! Happy pickling!