There’s nothing like a batch of homemade watermelon jam, especially when it’s made the traditional way—by grandma! Imagine the sweet, natural flavors of watermelon captured in a jar, perfect for spreading on toast or mixing into desserts. And when you’re working with 250 kg of watermelon, there’s plenty of goodness to go around. Plus, this recipe is completely natural, with no added sugar, making it perfect for the whole family.

Making Watermelon Jam

Ingredients:

• 250 kg of watermelon (adjust according to your needs)

• Juice of 4-5 lemons (for natural preservation)

• A handful of fresh mint leaves (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Watermelon: Start by cutting the watermelon into small cubes, removing all the seeds. You want to use the flesh, but don’t discard the white part close to the rind—it’s full of natural pectin, which helps thicken the jam.

2. Cook the Watermelon: In a large pot, place the watermelon cubes and cook them over medium heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the watermelon to break down and release its juice. This will take some time, especially with a large quantity, so be patient.

3. Add Lemon Juice: Once the watermelon has softened and started to reduce, add the lemon juice. The lemon juice acts as a natural preservative and adds a slight tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the watermelon.

4. Simmer and Thicken: Continue to cook the mixture on low heat, stirring frequently. The jam will slowly thicken as the water evaporates. This can take several hours, but the result is worth it. If you like, add a handful of fresh mint leaves during the last hour of cooking for a refreshing twist.

5. Jar the Jam: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Let it cool slightly before ladling it into sterilized glass jars. Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place.

DIY Natural Watermelon Juice

With all that watermelon, you might want to make some natural juice as well—a refreshing treat for the whole family.

Ingredients:

• Fresh watermelon (as much as you like)

• Juice of 1-2 lemons (optional)

• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Blend the Watermelon: Cut the watermelon into chunks and blend it until smooth. There’s no need to add water, as watermelon is naturally juicy. If you prefer a smoother juice, you can strain it through a fine mesh sieve.

2. Add Lemon (Optional): For a little extra zing, add the juice of 1-2 lemons. This is especially refreshing on a hot day.

3. Serve: Pour the juice into a pitcher and serve chilled. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

With these recipes, you’re not just making jam and juice—you’re creating a tradition that brings the family together. Whether it’s spreading that thick, sweet jam on morning toast or sipping a glass of fresh watermelon juice, these natural, homemade treats are sure to bring joy to everyone around the table.

So, roll up your sleeves and channel your inner grandma—because there’s nothing quite like homemade goodness made with love!