Refreshing Watermelon Lime Preserves for Summer (Print version)
Bright watermelon preserves with fresh lime, made in one pot and ready for the fridge. A small-batch summer project that tastes like sunshine.
# Ingredients:
For the preserves
01 -
8 cups (1.2 kg) seedless watermelon, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
02 -
1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
03 -
1/4 cup (60 ml) fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
04 -
1 tbsp lime zest
05 -
1 (1.75 oz / 49 g) package powdered fruit pectin
06 -
1/4 tsp fine sea salt
07 -
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Remove the rind and cut the flesh into uniform 1/2-inch cubes until you have 8 cups. Discard any seeds and blot the cubes lightly with a towel to remove surface moisture.
02 -
Place the watermelon, lime juice, lime zest, and powdered pectin into a large, heavy pot. Stir for about 1 minute so the pectin fully dissolves and coats the fruit.
03 -
Set the pot over medium-high heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down.
04 -
Pour in the sugar and salt all at once. Return to a full rolling boil and boil hard for exactly 1 minute. Remove from heat, skim off any foam, and stir in the vanilla if using.
05 -
Ladle the hot preserves into clean half-pint jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Let them cool to room temperature uncovered, then seal and refrigerate.
# Good to know:
01 -
The preserves reach their final set after a full night in the refrigerator.
02 -
For shelf-stable storage, process in a boiling water bath following tested guidelines.