Green and white striped fruits sliced open, revealing seeds.

The watermelon gherkin, a miniature variant of the cucumber family, has been a hidden gem in the culinary world for centuries. Originating from Africa, this fruit offers a crunchy texture and a watermelon-like rind that gives an instant flavor burst – a perfect balance of sweet and tart. They are not only delicious but also versatile in their usage, from garnishing your favorite cocktail to a pickle jar. One surefire way to relish their taste is by pickling them.

Discover the delightful crunch of Watermelon Gherkins in a refreshing recipe, and in the same culinary journey, explore an article highlighting the bold flavor of red mustard.

Making Delicious Pickled Watermelon Gherkins

The art of pickling watermelon gherkins will lend an arresting flavor to your dishes and drinks. Whether you’re garnishing a classic martini or seeking a unique twist for your meals, the pickled gherkins offer an unmatched burst of taste. The following recipe, inspired by Bon Appetit, details the process of creating these delicious pickled treats at home.

Ingredients Required

A hand holding small green and white patterned fruits.

Here’s a list of ingredients you need for making the pickled watermelon gherkins:

  • 1 1/2 cups of distilled white vinegar
  • 1 cup of water
  • 2 tablespoons of Kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 serrano chile pepper, halved
  • 1 head of garlic, halved crosswise
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon of whole black peppercorns
  • 1 cup of watermelon gherkins

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Mix distilled white vinegar, water, Kosher salt, and sugar in a small saucepan and place it over medium heat.
  2. Stir occasionally until the sugar fully dissolves in the mixture.
  3. Add in the halved serrano chile pepper, crosswise halved garlic head, cloves, bay leaf, mustard seeds, and whole black peppercorns.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture steep until it is warm, but not hot.
  5. Finally, add the watermelon gherkins to the mixture, let it cool completely, and then chill it.
  6. Store this preparation in a jar and refrigerate it. These pickled watermelon gherkins can be enjoyed for up to 2-3 weeks.

Diverse Uses of Pickled Watermelon Gherkins

These pickled mini crunchy delights are not restricted to just martinis. They can liven up a simple sandwich, mix well with salads, or serve as a tangy burst in your grain bowls. Their usage is only limited by your creativity.

Nutritional Benefits of Watermelon Gherkins

Besides the taste, watermelon gherkins are packed with nutrients. They’re low in calories, rich in Vitamin K, which is essential for bone health, and contain antioxidants that can boost your immune system. The pickling process, although adding a bit of sodium, retains most of these nutrients, making it a healthy addition to your diet.

Conclusion

Watermelon gherkins, with their delightful taste and nutritional benefits, are an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire. Pickling them not only accentuates their flavor but also extends their shelf life. This guide has offered you an easy step-by-step process to make your own pickled watermelon gherkins at home. So why wait? Try this recipe today, and explore the diverse ways to enjoy this hidden gem of a fruit!