How to pick the perfect watermelon this summer: Pro tips inside
Summer is in full swing, and watermelon season is heating up. These juicy, sweet, refreshing fruits are the perfect way to cool down on hot days. However, it's not always easy to choose the ideal watermelon that will be sweet and ripe. Fortunately, a few simple tricks can help you pick the perfect fruit!
7:53 PM EDT, June 27, 2024
Summer without watermelon is like the ocean without water – simply incomplete. This juicy, sweet, refreshing fruit is an irreplaceable treat, especially on hot days. However, choosing the right fruit is the key to thoroughly enjoying its taste. How do you pick a sweet watermelon that will provide maximum pleasure? Here are a few practical tips worth knowing before shopping.
Dark spot on the bottom - key to success
Many believe that a light spot on the bottom of a watermelon indicates spoilage. Nothing could be further from the truth! On the contrary, the darker this spot and the more space it occupies, the sweeter and more ripe the fruit will be.
Why does this happen? Well, the watermelon lies on the ground while ripening, and in the place where it touches the ground, photosynthesis occurs. The lack of access to sunlight causes the skin in that spot to become darker. The longer the watermelon lies on the ground, the darker and more significant the spot becomes, and the fruit itself is sweeter.
Remember, buying a whole watermelon is best because it will stay fresh longer. Cut pieces should be eaten as soon as possible since they are not suitable for long storage in the refrigerator.
Brown streaks and flexible skin - signs of delicious flesh
Pay attention to the watermelon's skin besides the dark spot on the bottom. It should be slightly flexible and rich green in color. Yellow-brown streaks on the skin are another sign that the fruit inside is sweet and juicy.
Sound like a thump - sign that the watermelon is perfect
Lastly, check the watermelon's sound when you tap it with your hand. If you hear nothing, the fruit is unripe. A resounding thump, on the other hand, indicates that the watermelon is perfectly ripe and ready to eat.
Brown stem - guarantee of ripeness
Additionally, look at the watermelon's stem. If it is green, it's best to put it back. The perfect stem is brown and slightly dried out. At the point where the stem grew, it may even be completely absent, leaving just a dried spot. This means the watermelon had time to ripen and develop its full flavor.
Remember, watermelon is a delicious and refreshing fruit and a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Don't throw away the rind or seeds! They contain many valuable nutrients and can be used to prepare healthy and tasty dishes.
