The 1987 classic Dirty Dancing immortalized the watermelon by providing one of the best known, most random, movie quotes ever: “I carried a watermelon”. Even if this cameo appearance is lost on you, you’ll discover that the watermelon has a whole lot to offer!
The watermelon hails from South Africa, where climate conditions are just perfect for it. It loves the sun and dry, sandy ground. Even today, wild watermelons still grow in the steppes of South Africa, but they differ from the watermelons that we know and love in that their taste is somewhat bitter. As a result, they tend to be more popular for their seeds, which are processed for further use. Much like sunflower seeds in Europe, they are roasted and salted and enjoyed as a healthy snack; and they are also used to produce flour and oil.
Watermelon can usually be bought all year round. When you buy a watermelon, it’s a good idea to check if it is optimally ripe. Pay particular attention to its sound criteria by knocking on the watermelon. If a dull, melodious sound is produced, the fruit is ripe. If the watermelon sounds hollow and metallic, it is not ready to be eaten. Often a whole watermelon will be more than you can eat so we recommend buying half a melon – these are usually available wrapped in cling film, ready to buy. In some supermarkets, you can buy individual watermelon slices, which allows you to see exactly how ripe the fruit is.
If your watermelon starts to taste floury within these timeframes, it will be due to its ripeness – it has simply been left for too long.
The most common way of preparing a watermelon is to halve it, quarter it, and then cut it into slices. Its luscious red color makes it ideal for decorating dishes.
Watermelon also tastes great as a refreshing smoothie. To make your own, simply deseed 11 ounces of fruit and puree it with a pot of yogurt, 1/2 cup of milk and 1 tablespoon of icing sugar. Then, add two scoops of vanilla ice cream and mix until creamy. Pour into glasses, decorate with mint, serve and enjoy!
So why not head out and get yourself a watermelon? Warm summer weather is just around the corner…!
What’s your favourite way to eat watermelon? Tell us about your favourite creations. Use the comment function below this post or start/join in discussions with us on Facebook.
What’s your favourite way to eat watermelon? Tell us about your favourite creations. Use the comment function below this post or start/join in discussions with us on Facebook.
Storage
If you want to enjoy your fresh watermelon for as long as possible, we recommend storing it in a refrigerator where it will keep fresh for up to 27 days.
Food Facts
As the name suggests, watermelon contains a lot of water. About 95% to be exact. This makes watermelon a gloriously refreshing treat, especially on hot summer days. Add to its succulence its fruity flavor and you have a truly delightful, almost calorie free, taste sensation! At just 24 kcal per 100 grams you can enjoy watermelon to your heart’s content. What better way could there be to keep yourself hydrated yourself on a scorching hot day?
Watermelon has even more to offer. It is rich in vitamins A and C, it contains high levels of iron and a small amount of sodium; the latter works in conjunction with the water contained within to have a cleansing effect on the kidneys.
The watermelon’s seeds have a lot to offer too in terms of vitamins, minerals, fats and protein. As you can see, there’s a surprising amount packed into a watermelon!