Grandma’s Secret Canned Watermelon Juice Recipe
Introduction
In the heart of summer, when watermelon is at its ripest and juiciest, Grandma has a secret that she’s been sharing with her loved ones for years. It’s a tradition that turns summer’s bounty into a delicious treat that warms the soul during the cold winter months – canned watermelon juice! This recipe not only captures the essence of summer but also provides a delightful taste of sunshine during the darkest days of winter.
Ingredients
- Fresh, ripe watermelons
- Sugar (optional, to taste)
- Lemon juice (optional, for added flavor)
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Juicer or blender
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Large pot for boiling
- Sterilized canning jars and lids
- Canning pot with rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Selecting the Watermelons
Begin by selecting the freshest and ripest watermelons from your local market or grocery store. Look for watermelons that are heavy for their size with a creamy yellow spot on one side, indicating ripeness.
2. Preparing the Watermelon
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the watermelon into slices. Remove the seeds and discard them. Ensure that only the sweetest and juiciest flesh makes it into your juicer or blender.
3. Juicing the Watermelon
Next comes the magic: juicing! Grandma uses a trusty old juicer to extract every last drop of liquid gold from the watermelon pieces. If you don’t have a juicer, a blender works just as well. Blend the watermelon flesh until smooth.
4. Straining the Juice
Pour the blended watermelon through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large pot to remove any pulp or remaining seeds. This step ensures a smooth and refreshing juice.
5. Optional Additions
Taste the watermelon juice. If you prefer a sweeter juice, you can add sugar to taste. For a hint of tanginess, add a splash of lemon juice.
Canning the Watermelon Juice
6. Sterilizing the Jars
Before filling the jars, it’s essential to sterilize them. Place the jars and lids in a large pot of boiling water for at least 10 minutes. This step is crucial to ensure that the juice is preserved safely.
7. Filling the Jars
Carefully pour the freshly squeezed watermelon juice into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a good seal.
8. Sealing the Jars
Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight. Do not overtighten, as air needs to escape during the canning process.
9. Processing the Jars
Place the filled jars into a canning pot with a rack. Make sure the jars are fully submerged in water. Bring the water to a boil and process the jars for about 10 minutes to ensure they are properly sealed and preserved.
Enjoying the Canned Watermelon Juice
10. Storing the Jars
Once the jars have been processed, carefully remove them from the canning pot and place them on a towel to cool. Check the seals after 24 hours. If the lids do not pop when pressed, the jars are sealed correctly. Store the jars in a cool, dark place.
11. Savoring the Flavor
When the first snowflakes start to fall and the temperatures plummet, Grandma’s canned watermelon juice becomes a precious treasure. With just a twist of a lid, a burst of summer flavor is released, warming both the body and the spirit. Whether enjoyed on its own or mixed into cocktails and mocktails, Grandma’s watermelon juice is a taste of sunshine during the darkest days of winter.
Tips for the Perfect Canned Watermelon Juice
- Choose Ripe Watermelons: Ensure your watermelons are at their peak ripeness for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Strain Thoroughly: To achieve a smooth juice, strain the blended watermelon well to remove any pulp or seeds.
- Sterilize Properly: Proper sterilization of jars and lids is crucial to prevent spoilage and ensure safe long-term storage.
- Adjust Sweetness and Acidity: Tailor the sweetness and acidity to your preference by adding sugar and lemon juice as needed.
- Proper Sealing: Ensure the jars are sealed correctly by checking the lids after cooling. A properly sealed jar lid will not pop when pressed.
FAQs
Can I Use a Blender Instead of a Juicer?
Yes, a blender works just as well for making watermelon juice. After blending, simply strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any pulp.
How Long Can I Store the Canned Watermelon Juice?
When stored in a cool, dark place, properly canned watermelon juice can last for up to one year. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming.
Can I Add Other Fruits to the Juice?
Absolutely! You can experiment by adding other fruits like strawberries or mint for a unique twist on the classic watermelon juice.
Do I Need to Add Sugar?
Adding sugar is optional. If the watermelons are naturally sweet, you may find that additional sugar is not necessary. Adjust to your taste preference.
What If I Don’t Have a Canning Pot?
If you don’t have a canning pot, you can use a large pot with a rack at the bottom to keep the jars from touching the base. Ensure the jars are fully submerged in water during processing.
Conclusion
Grandma’s canned watermelon juice is a delicious way to preserve summer’s bounty and brighten up those winter days. With a little bit of effort and a whole lot of love, you can enjoy the taste of summer all year round. So, take a page from Grandma’s book and try canning your own watermelon juice. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a refreshing cocktail, this delightful treat is sure to bring warmth and joy to your home.