It is time to celebrate this refreshing fruit during the monsoon season. This red juicy fruit is loved by all because of its hydration qualities, sweet taste and juiciness, so much so that several countries have age-old traditions to celebrate it.
Uttar Pradesh is the leading state in India for watermelon production. Moreover, the average watermelon cultivation in Uttar Pradesh is around 706.65 tonnes of yield. As per the study named, Molecules. 2020, it is packed with vitamins A, B6 and C, this versatile fruit can be enjoyed in savoury as well as sweet dishes. These innovative recipes can be enjoyed and keep you hydrated even in the monsoon. Watermelon is added to the classic Indian dessert for hearty and flavourful dishes.
6 Refreshing Recipes To Make With Watermelon
Watermelon Salad
This combo of watermelon and pineapple is a must to try in the monsoon. The contrasting flavours give it a refreshing and satisfying taste. To make it, cut a pineapple and watermelon and remove the seed. For an extra crunch, you can add the dry fruits of your choice. Arrange the watermelon and pineapple and sprinkle mint leaves over them. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and give it a toss.
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Watermelon Sorbet
All you need in this monsoon season is a refreshing bowl of watermelon sorbet. A simple and incredible homemade dessert that will not only make you happy but will also give kids a break from the outside food. Here is how to make it, cut and deseed the watermelon. Take a blender and make a smooth watermelon puree. Pour it into a shallow dish and let it freeze for an hour. After an hour, take it out, stir it with a fork, and put it back in the freeze; repeat this process in 30 minutes for almost 3 hours. Until the sorbet is firm and scoopable. Then scoop, and serve it.
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Watermelon Skewers
Make this for your next gathering, a sweet and refreshing appetiser for watermelon skewers. These skewers are a fun, easy-to-make, and visually appealing appetiser that are surely to give your party the most attraction. Here is how to make it, cut watermelon, cheese and cured meat of your choice. Make these small bite-sized pieces and line them into a wooden skewer. Alternately, place the skewers on a plate and for an extra touch of flavour, drizzle fresh herbs like basil or mint.
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Sweet And Spicy Rajasthani Watermelon Curry
This Watermelon Curry Recipe is a speciality of the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is a combination you most likely have never heard of before. Don’t be wary. This Sweet and Spicy Watermelon Curry is so delicious and goes great with some steamed rice or flatbread like Naan or Kulcha. To prepare this curry, start by cooking diced watermelon in a blend of spices like cumin, mustard seeds, and hing (asafoetida). Add a mixture of sweet jaggery and tangy tamarind to balance the flavour, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and spiciness. The curry is typically finished with a garnish of fresh coriander and served hot, offering a refreshing and flavourful experience that is distinct to Rajasthani cuisine.
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Watermelon Halwa
Watermelon Halwa is a delightful and unique dessert that combines the refreshing taste of watermelon with traditional Indian sweet-making techniques. To prepare this halwa, start by extracting the juice and pulp from fresh watermelon. Cook the pulp with ghee in a pan until it reduces and thickens. Add sugar, cardamom powder, and a pinch of saffron to enhance the flavour. Continue stirring until the mixture reaches a halwa-like consistency. Garnish with chopped nuts like almonds and pistachios for a crunchy contrast. This halwa offers a refreshing twist on conventional Indian sweets, perfect for a healthy monsoon indulgence.
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Chile-Lime Grilled Watermelon
It is near impossible to one-up the smoky flavour of grilled fruit, but a chile-lime seasoning does just the trick. This dish has a unique and flavourful side that perfectly pairs with a barbeque party. Cut watermelon into thick wedges or slices. In a small bowl, mix chile powder, lime zest, and a pinch of salt. Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the watermelon slices with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the watermelon on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until grill marks appear and the watermelon is slightly caramelised. Remove from the grill and immediately sprinkle with the chile-lime seasoning. Serve the grilled watermelon warm as a side dish or snack.
Monsoon is all about relishing refreshing dishes and watermelon is the best food to do so. Take a look and carry on these to make the best of the monsoon season. Make these watermelon delights and enjoy the rainy season with flavour.