Best Watermelon Rind Jam

Did you know you can make watermelon jam with juicy flesh and even the rind? This Watermelon Rind Jam is sweet, refreshing, and a smart way to use every part of the fruit.

Watermelon Rind Jam Recipe

Watermelon rind jam is crafted from the often-discarded greenish-white rind of the fruit. It has a unique, slightly tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness. Unlike the smooth watermelon jam, this rind jam has a firmer texture and a more subtle sweetness.

Easy and chewy watermelon rind jam for toast

The rind contains beneficial nutrients and fiber, making it a healthier alternative to the traditional jam. You can use this jam on bread, toast, bagels with cream cheese, or peanut butter sandwiches for a tasty twist. It also works well as a dessert topping for cakes or ice cream. You even cut the cooked rind into shapes and dry it for a candy-like treat.

For savory options, pair the jam with cheeses like cheddar or brie, or use it as a glaze for meats like chicken or shrimp. It can also enhance vinaigrettes, yogurt, oatmeal, or desserts like ice cream and pancakes. You can mix it into BBQ sauce, chutney, or marinades for extra flavor.

Here’s how to make the watermelon rind jam:

Simple watermelon rind jam recipe for breakfast

Watermelon Rind Jam

Sweet, tangy, and zero-waste! Watermelon rind jam turns leftover rinds into a delicious spread. Easy recipe with simple ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Condiment
Cuisine American
Servings 16 tbsp

Nutrition

Calories: 40kcalCarbohydrates: 10gSugar: 9g

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups watermelon rind green skin removed, white part finely chopped
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger optional for spice
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

  • Peel off the green outer skin of the watermelon rind. Chop the white part into small cubes.
  • In a saucepan, combine the chopped rind and water. Boil for 10 minutes until slightly tender. Drain.
  • Return the rind to the pan. Add sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and ginger (if using).
  • Simmer over medium-low heat for about 35–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and turns golden.
  • For a smoother jam, use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree slightly. This step is optional
  • Let the jam cool. Transfer to sterilized jars. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.

Notes

  • You can reduce the sugar slightly if preferred, or substitute with honey or coconut sugar for variation.
  • Adding a cinnamon stick or star anise while simmering gives it a spiced twist.
Keyword healthy condiment, homemade jam, jam recipes
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Variations

You can add other ingredients to this watermelon rind jam recipe to make other variations. Here are some ideas to try:

  1. Spiced Chai Addition adds 1 cinnamon stick, 2 cloves, 1 star anise, 1/4 tsp ground cardamom for a warm, spiced flavor.
  2. Ginger-Orange Rind Jam
    • Swap lemon juice for orange juice
    • Add 1 tsp fresh grated ginger and 1 tbsp orange zest
  3. Watermelon Rind & Pineapple Jam includes 1/2 cup finely chopped pineapple. This version gives a tropical flavor and natural sweetness.
  4. Low-Sugar Version uses 1/2 cup sugar and 2 tbsp chia seeds (added after cooking)
  5. Rose Water Infusion adds 1/2 tsp rose water (stir in at the end). It’s great for desserts.

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