Watermelon peels are often discarded as waste, but they’re actually edible and packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. With a little creativity, you can transform these peels into a delicious and nutritious breakfast dish. Here’s a recipe for watermelon peel preserves that will definitely add a twist to your morning routine and might just blow your mind!
Watermelon Peel Preserves Recipe
Ingredients:
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Peels from 1 large watermelon (green skin removed, leaving the white part)
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2 cups sugar
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1 lemon, juiced and zested
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1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
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2 cups water
Instructions:
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Prepare the Watermelon Peels:
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Use a vegetable peeler or knife to remove the outer green skin of the watermelon, leaving the white part intact.
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Cut the white part of the peel into small, bite-sized pieces.
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Make the Syrup:
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In a large pot, combine water, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
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Add the ginger and cinnamon if using, to enhance the flavor.
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Cook the Peels:
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Once the syrup is boiling, add the chopped watermelon peels.
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Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the peels become translucent and the syrup thickens.
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Cool and Store:
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Remove the pot from heat and let the preserves cool.
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Transfer the preserves to a clean jar and seal tightly. Store in the refrigerator.
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Serving Suggestions:
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On Toast: Spread the watermelon peel preserves over buttered toast for a sweet and tangy start to your day.
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With Yogurt: Mix some preserves into plain or vanilla yogurt for a refreshing breakfast.
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As a Pancake Topping: Use the preserves as a topping for pancakes or waffles instead of traditional syrup.
Nutritional Benefits:
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Fiber: Watermelon peels are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes satiety.
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Vitamins: The peels contain vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and vitamin B6, which is important for protein metabolism.
Not only does this recipe turn what would be waste into something wonderful, but it also provides a unique, tasty, and nutritious addition to your breakfast. It’s a fantastic way to make the most out of the often-overlooked parts of fruits and to surprise your taste buds with something new and exciting.
