Watermelon Rind Reimagined: Sweet & Spicy Snack with a Soda Surprise! ️

We’ve all been there: you slice into a juicy watermelon, savor the refreshing flesh, and then… what do you do with the leftover rind? Don’t toss it in the compost just yet! Watermelon rind is a hidden gem in the kitchen, packed with nutrients and surprisingly delicious. Today, we’ll transform this often-discarded part into a sweet and spicy snack using just one unexpected ingredient: powdered soda!

Intrigued? Read on!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups watermelon rind, cut into thin matchsticks (about the size of french fries)
• 1 tablespoon powdered soda (any flavor you like!) This is the secret weapon!
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/4 teaspoon lime juice
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Method:

1. Prepare the Rind: First things first, wash and dry your watermelon rind. Cut the green skin off, leaving behind the white flesh. Slice the flesh into thin matchsticks, roughly the size of french fries.

2. Spice it Up: In a large bowl, combine the watermelon rind, powdered soda, chili powder, lime juice, and salt. Toss well to coat the rind evenly.

3. Unlock the Flavor: Here comes the magic! The powdered soda adds a surprising burst of sweetness and tang that complements the watermelon and chili perfectly. Choose your favorite flavor – grape, orange, or even cherry could all work!

4. Kiss of Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and toss again. The oil helps prevent the rind from sticking during cooking and adds a touch of richness.

5. Cooking Options: Choose your cooking adventure! You can either:

   • Pan-Fry: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the watermelon rind mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rind is tender-crisp and slightly caramelized.
   • Bake it Up: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the rind mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until tender-crisp and slightly golden brown, stirring halfway through.

6. Serve & Enjoy! Once cooked, remove the rind from the heat and let it cool slightly. This sweet and spicy snack is perfect on its own or pair it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a more complete treat.

Waste Not, Want Not!

This recipe is a fun and delicious way to reduce food waste and discover a new use for watermelon rind. The powdered soda adds a playful and unexpected twist, making this a unique and satisfying snack. So next time you slice into a watermelon, don’t throw away the rind! Give this recipe a try and thank yourself (and us!) for unlocking the hidden potential of this summertime staple.