Watermelon is one of the most favorite summer fruits to indulge in. Who doesn’t love a sweet, juicy slice of watermelon on a hot day? It’s perfect for eating on its own, making into a cocktail or throwing into a fruit salad. We in Turkey like eating it with some fata cheese. One piece of the fruit, however, always ends up in the trash – the watermelon rind – but maybe it shouldn’t.
Many people hate to waste food. So, there’s always this silent guilt when the watermelon rind is tossed into the trash. I know that it’s not a typical practice to eat this hard and sour bit, but out of curiosity I decided to investigate whether or not it’s actually edible – and to my surprise, it is.
According to Healthline, the rind (the white part, not the skin) is packed with some serious health-boosting nutrients. It is particularly concentrated in an amino acid called citrulline, which has shown to improve the delivery of oxygen to your cells and muscles, potentially helping to enhance athletic performance. Some researchers also indicate that citrulline could boost your heart health by helping to reduce blood pressure, especially in those with hypertension. And on top of all that, watermelon rind is also rich in dietary fiber, a nutrient that improves digestive health, helping to improve conditions like constipation and symptoms of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).
Some claim that watermelon rind is a nature-powered Viagra. If you think you’ve lost your sex drive, give it a try.
How to Eat Watermelon Rind
Unlike the rest of the watermelon, you shouldn’t eat watermelon rind raw as is. It’s actually a great food to add into certain recipes.
Watermellon.org offers some great, simple ways to utilize your rind and get the most out of its health benefits. Check out how to pickle them, throw them into smoothies, and even cook them up into a delicious stir fry.
Outside of these suggestions, you can make watermelon rind into a jam (a quick google search will give you loads of recipes to try), or even chop your rind up as you would any other gourd (cucumbers, squash, pumpkins, etc.) and add them to soup, stew, and even curry recipes. They have a mild, sweet flavor, and can add a dose of fun to your favorite meals!
I hope you enjoy experimenting with this oft-neglected superfood.
See you all the next time.
