- To enhance the natural flavors and preserve candy
- Corn Syrup
- Adds moisture and helps in maintaining texture
- Salt (optional)
- Enhances flavor profile, making it more savory
- Food Coloring (Natural or Artificial)
- For vibrant watermelon color
- Flavored Extracts (e.g., Watermelon Extract)
- Adds authentic fruit flavor for a better taste experience
- Gelatin (or Pectin)
- Helps in achieving the chewy texture typical of candy
Ensure to adjust the recipe according to your desired sweetness and level of chewiness. Use high-quality ingredients to guarantee the best results, especially when targeting specific flavors or colors.
Steps
### How to Make Chewy Watermelon Rind Candy
Creating a delicious and unique chewy watermelon rind candy can be both fun and rewarding! Follow these detailed steps to make this delightful treat that will impress your friends and family.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- Zest from 1 large watermelon (about 3 tablespoons)
- Watermelon rind, peeled and cut into thin strips
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup water for cooking the rinds
#### Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Candy thermometer
- Cookie sheet lined with parchment paper
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Rind
1. **Peel and Cut**: Carefully peel off the watermelon rind, ensuring you remove as much of the green flesh as possible to avoid bitterness.
2. **Slice Thinly**: Use a mandoline slicer or very sharp knife to cut the rinds into thin strips, about 1/8-inch thick.
#### Step 2: Preparing the Syrup
3. **Combine Ingredients**: In a large saucepan, combine sugar and corn syrup. Add watermelon zest and stir until well mixed.
4. **Add Cream of Tartar**: This ingredient helps to prevent crystallization in the candy. Stir it into the mixture.
#### Step 3: Boil the Mixture
5. **Boiling Point**: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar fully. Once dissolved, stop stirring.
6. **Reach Temperature**: Bring the mixture to a boil and attach your candy thermometer. Cook until it reaches the soft-ball stage (230°F or 110°C).
#### Step 4: Add Rinds
7. **Cook Together**: Once the syrup has reached the desired temperature, carefully add the prepared watermelon rind strips.
8. **Mix Gently**: Use a wooden spoon to gently mix the rinds into the hot syrup until they are evenly coated.
#### Step 5: Cooling and Shaping
9. **Pour onto Parchment**: Quickly pour the candy mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
10. **Shape**: Spread the mixture out as thinly and evenly as possible, about 1/4-inch thick. Use a spatula to ensure uniform thickness.
#### Step 6: Cooling Completely
11. **Cooling Time**: Allow the candy to cool completely at room temperature. This can take several hours or overnight.
12. **Break into Pieces**: Once fully cooled and set, break the candy into bite-sized pieces using a sharp knife or your hands.
### Tips for Perfect Results:
- **Temperature Check**: Ensuring you reach the soft-ball stage is crucial to achieving the chewy texture.
- **Avoid Overcooking**: Watch the temperature closely; overcooking can result in hard, brittle candy instead of the desired chewiness.
- **Storage**: Store your watermelon rind candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
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- Chewy Watermelon Rind Candy
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- Easy Candy Making
- Watermelon Rind Recipes
By following these steps, you can create a delightful and unique treat that will be the perfect addition to any summer picnic or party!