Watermelon is one of the delightful fruits we eagerly await each summer to enjoy its sweet and refreshing taste. It's suitable for everyone, even those following a special diet.
However, the tough rind makes it a bit of a mystery, with opening it feeling like a gamble.
Here's how to choose a ripe and sweet watermelon:
– Examine Stripes –
The outer colour of a watermelon can hint at its inner quality. Opt for a watermelon with dark green, well-defined stripes. The lighter stripes should be a pale yellow. Additionally, choose a watermelon with a dull appearance, as a shiny rind often indicates it is not fully ripe.
– Look for Yellow Spot –
A yellow spot on the underside of the watermelon signifies it stayed on the ground longer to ripen. The deeper the yellow, edging towards orange, the better. This spot indicates the fruit is likely red and rich in mature fibres inside.
– Check stem –
To ensure a watermelon is sweet and ripe, inspect the stem. It should be dry and brownish-yellow. A green stem usually means the watermelon was picked too early and may lack sweetness.
– Tap It –
Although it might seem humorous, tapping the watermelon is crucial. A deep, hollow sound suggests the fruit has a lot of water and is likely riper. A duller sound can indicate a thick rind and less ripe fruit.
– Look for Sugar Spots –
White spots at the ends of the stripes, resembling veins, indicate sweetness. These spots are sugar leaking from the fruit, signaling it’s delicious and sweet.
– Choose Heavier Watermelons –
When picking a watermelon, heft it. A heavier watermelon for its size typically means it's full of water, making it sweeter.
– Opt for Rounder Shapes –
Select a round, evenly shaped watermelon rather than an oval one. Round watermelons tend to be sweeter, while oval ones are often watery and less flavorful. Avoid watermelons with irregular lumps or bumps.
By following these tips, one can confidently select a juicy, sweet watermelon to enjoy all summer.
