When the summer heat is at its peak, a slice of watermelon is the ultimate refreshment. While watermelon is typically enjoyed fresh, it can also be transformed into delightful desserts like watermelon popsicles or watermelon sago.
But what about the rind? Don’t throw it away—try this magical transformation into watermelon candy and stir-fried watermelon rind!
The Art of Ingredient Preparation
1. Selecting and Preparing Watermelon Rind
For the perfect stir-fried watermelon rind, choose a watermelon with thick rind, as it is easier to handle and has a better texture when cooked.
Despite being often discarded, watermelon rind is rich in water, vitamins, and dietary fiber, offering unique flavors and health benefits when cooked.
After slicing the watermelon, carefully peel off the tough outer green layer, as it can negatively affect the dish’s texture.
Remove the pink flesh completely, leaving only the pale green part—this tender section is ideal for stir-frying.
Cut the prepared rind into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
2. Key Flavor Pairings
- 10g garlic (minced)
- 5g chili peppers (such as bird’s eye or red chilies)
- 5g green peppers (sliced)
- 1 tsp salt (for marinating the rind)
- 2g salt (for stir-frying)
- 1 tsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp chicken bouillon powder (optional)
The exact measurements can be adjusted to suit your taste. Chinese stir-frying often allows for flexibility in seasoning.
- Garlic: Essential for enhancing aroma, garlic adds depth to the dish. When sautéed in hot oil, it releases a rich fragrance that elevates the dish’s flavor. Garlic also provides natural antibacterial benefits.
- Chilies: Add heat and spice to awaken your taste buds. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. Chilies contribute a lively, layered flavor to the dish.
- Green peppers: Provide a crisp texture and refreshing aroma. Their natural sweetness balances the dish’s spiciness and adds vitamin C. Choose firm, smooth peppers for the best texture.
The sauces—soy, oyster, and chicken bouillon—blend to create a savory, umami-rich profile, with a touch of salt enhancing overall flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Watermelon Rind
- Place the cut watermelon rind in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and toss to coat evenly.
- Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which improves the rind’s texture.
- Rinse thoroughly with water to remove excess salt, then pat dry with a clean towel.
2. The Stir-Frying Process
- Heat oil in a wok over medium heat until shimmering. Add garlic, chilies, and green peppers along with a pinch of salt. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add the prepared watermelon rind and stir-fry quickly, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated in the aromatic oil and spices.
- Pour in light soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to infuse the rind.
- Continue stir-frying until the rind is tender and flavorful. Remove from heat and serve hot.
What Makes This Dish Special?
1. Refreshing Crispness
Watermelon rind retains a crunchy texture after cooking, pairing perfectly with the crispness of green peppers. This refreshing bite is especially satisfying during hot summer days.
2. Savory Depth
The bold garlic aroma, combined with spicy chilies and savory sauces, creates a complex and harmonious flavor profile. Each bite is packed with umami goodness, making it an excellent side dish with rice or steamed buns.
3. Eco-Friendly and Budget-Friendly
This dish embodies sustainability by using an often-overlooked part of the watermelon. It reduces food waste while offering a cost-effective way to create a delicious meal.
Stir-fried watermelon rind is a unique blend of flavor, nutrition, and sustainability. Add it to your summer menu for a dish that’s as delightful as it is innovative!
Stir-Fried Watermelon Rind
Ingredients
- 10 g garlic minced
- 5 g chili peppers such as bird’s eye or red chilies
- 5 g green peppers sliced
- 1 tsp salt for marinating the rind
- 2 g salt for stir-frying
- 1 tsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp chicken bouillon powder optional
Instructions
Preparing the Watermelon Rind
- Place the cut watermelon rind in a bowl, sprinkle with salt, and toss to coat evenly.
- Let it sit for 15–20 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which improves the rind’s texture.
- Rinse thoroughly with water to remove excess salt, then pat dry with a clean towel.
The Stir-Frying Process
- Heat oil in a wok over medium heat until shimmering. Add garlic, chilies, and green peppers along with a pinch of salt. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add the prepared watermelon rind and stir-fry quickly, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated in the aromatic oil and spices.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir well to combine, allowing the flavors to infuse the rind.
- Continue stir-frying until the rind is tender and flavorful. Remove from heat and serve hot.
