Look for the yellow spot That area is called the “field spot” and is probably the best indicator of ripeness and sweetness. Look for a spot that’s yellow in color, which means it’s been ripening on the vine for a long time. A light-colored or white spot means the melon was picked too early.
How do you know if a watermelon is ready and sweet?
Another way to find a ripe watermelon is to lightly knock the outside with your knuckles. A ripe melon will have a deeper sound, as opposed to an over-ripe one that will have a more hollow or flat sound. A duller, more hollow sound can mean the flesh is starting to go soft and spoil.
Do watermelons get sweeter the longer they sit?
“In general, melons will not change significantly once they’re harvested from the vine,” Green explains. She says that cantaloupes, honeydew, and watermelon are all non-climacteric fruits, which means that once they’re harvested, they won’t continue to become tastier or sweeter like peaches or bananas will.
What color watermelon is the sweetest?
According to the experts at the Watermelon Board, yellow and orange watermelons are generally sweeter than those with pink or red flesh. Seedless watermelons tend to have a crisper texture than those with seeds, they add.
Does watermelon ripen in the refrigerator?
Watermelon does not ripen after harvesting, but it can get mushy in the refrigerator if it is a little overripe when picked, even before you cut into it. Store uncut watermelons in a warm, dry place for two to three weeks. Once you have cut the watermelon, you can store it in the refrigerator for two to three days.
How do you quickly ripen a watermelon?
Wrap a picked, unripe watermelon in a paper bag. This could help it ripen some if you inadvertently obtained a melon that does look ripe. Store it at room temperature, not in refrigerator. Check every few days to see if the watermelon has ripened.
What color is ripe watermelon?
“Ripe watermelons normally develop a yellow color on the ‘ground spot’ when ripe,” Upham said.
What can I do with a tasteless watermelon?
Dealing With Bland Watermelon
If you slice in and are disappointed with the flavor, we’ve found that adding lime zest and juice helps pump it up and honestly… adding a little sugar does too. To make these drinks we pureed the food milled watermelon with sugar, ice and lime juice for a sweet treat.
How do you pick out a good watermelon?
A ripe watermelon should have a thick rind that doesn’t give easily when pressured. The ones that do are generally overripe. Also, if you scratch it with your thumbnail, you shouldn’t be able to cut through it. A ripe watermelon should have a firm rind that doesn’t give to pressure and is not easily scratched.
How long after you buy a watermelon should you cut it?
If you chill your melon before cutting it, you should be able to consume a delicious watermelon after 2 to 3 weeks. If you buy half or a quarter of the watermelon from the supermarket’s refrigerator section, put it right back in the fridge when you get home.
Does a watermelon continue to ripen after it has been picked?
Some, like watermelon, do not continue to ripen once harvested. Therefore, flavor will not improve nor will they become sweeter—t is what it is at harvest. However, cantaloupe and similar fruit will continue to ripen after harvest.
When should you open a watermelon?
How to Tell When Watermelon is Ripe
- A ripe watermelon should make a hollow sound when you tap or knock on its rind.
- The rind should not scratch easily or give way under light pressure.
- The bottom of the watermelon has what is called a “field spot.” When a watermelon is ripe, this spot should be yellow.
Are darker or lighter watermelons better?
The bigger and darker the patch is, the better. Watermelons should be a darker green. Very light watermelons may not have ripened long enough on the vine. The watermen should have contrasting dark with lighter stripes.
Why is my watermelon pink and not red?
The inside, if you’re looking at a cut watermelon section, should be bright pink or red with a thick, pale rind. An over-ripe melon will have paler pink flesh, more a shell pink than hot pink. The rind may be greener, and the outside will be more splotchy or discolored.
Is red or yellow watermelon better?
It is high in vitamins A and C, making it good for your immune system and skin health. Yellow watermelon contains more of the antioxidant beta-carotene than red watermelon. Beta-carotene is thought to protect against cancer and eye disease.
Can dogs have watermelon?
The answer is yes, with a couple of precautions. First, seeds could cause an intestinal blockage, so make sure you remove them. It’s also a good idea to remove the rind because it can cause gastrointestinal upset.
How do you keep watermelons fresh longer?
– Don’t stress spoilage, be mellow-n – Watermelon
- Wait. Whole watermelon should be left at room temperature until ripe.
- Refrigerate. Once ripe, place the whole watermelon, uncovered, in the refrigerator.
- Seal. Once cut, seal cut watermelon halves or slices in a Glad® Zipper Bag.
- Refrigerate. Store in the refrigerator.
What does an under ripe watermelon look like?
Watermelons have an underside, or belly—which is in contact with the ground throughout its growth—called a “field spot.” This spot on a ripe watermelon will be yellowish (sometimes referred to as “buttery”) and not white, which indicates an unripe melon.
How do I make my watermelon sweeter?
A small sprinkle of salt doesn’t just offer a salty-sweet kick, it also brings out the sweetness in the watermelon, making this the perfect hack for when you dig into a lackluster slice. Trust me, I’ve had people FREAK over this simple trick; it’s a game-changer.
Can you eat watermelon that is not ripe?
Underripe watermelons are safe to eat, but they aren’t particularly enjoyable. Unripe melon tastes diluted and watery, instead of sweet.
Why do you thump a watermelon?
It’s an odd, but common sight, but does it have a purpose? Well, as it turns out, watermelon thumping is actually a good way to find the ripest one. After you thump the rind, if you hear a muffled, hollow noise, that melon is ripe and ready to eat. If, however, you hear more of a ping, that melon needs more time.
Elvira Bowen is a food expert who has dedicated her life to understanding the science of cooking. She has worked in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens, and has published several cookbooks that have become bestsellers. Elvira is known for her creative approach to cuisine, and her passion for teaching others about the culinary arts.