Everyone loves biting into a perfectly ripe watermelon, with its sweet, juicy flesh bursting with flavor on a hot summer day. But what if you find yourself with an unripe melon that just doesn’t hit the spot? No worries. There are simple and effective ways to charm that watermelon into ripeness, transforming it into the delicious treat you crave.
In this guide, we’ll explore the easiest methods to ripen your watermelon at home, ensuring that every slice is a refreshing delight. Whether you’re planning a picnic or just want to enjoy a slice of summer, these tips will help you unlock the full potential of your watermelon.
How To Tell If a Watermelon is Ripe
Before diving into the methods of ripening, it's important to understand how watermelon ripens. Unlike some fruits, watermelons do not continue to ripen significantly after being picked. This means the ripening process largely happens while the fruit is still on the vine.
However, there are ways to enhance the sweetness and texture of a watermelon after it's been harvested.
Choosing the right watermelon is crucial because it ensures that you start with a fruit that has the potential for optimal sweetness and juiciness. For your ease, here you can see some techniques that will help you to choose the right watermelon.
1. Look for the Field Spot
When selecting a watermelon, look for a creamy yellow spot on its surface, known as the field spot. This spot indicates where the watermelon rested on the ground and ripened in the sun. The more prominent the yellow color, the longer the watermelon ripened on the vine.
2. Check the Sugar Spots
Sugar spots are dark, rough patches on the skin of the watermelon. These spots indicate that sugar is seeping out, suggesting a sweeter watermelon.
3. Tap Test
Tap the watermelon and listen for a deep, hollow sound. This sound indicates that the watermelon is full of water and likely ripe.
4. Heavy for its Size
A good watermelon should feel heavy, indicating it is full of water and juice.
5. Uniform Size
Look for a symmetrical shape without dents or irregularities.
Ways To Ripen Watermelon
After thoroughly understanding what makes a watermelon ripe, you can use several methods to ensure your watermelon reaches peak ripeness. Let's have a look:
One of the simplest and most effective ways to ripen watermelon is by using a brown paper bag. This method utilizes ethylene gas, which fruits naturally emit to promote ripening.
How to Do It
Choose a bag that is large enough to fit the watermelon comfortably.
Put the watermelon in the bag and fold the top to seal it
Leave the bag in a warm, dark place, such as the kitchen counter or pantry.
After a couple of days, check the watermelon for ripeness. The ethylene gas will help it ripen faster.
Similar to the brown paper bag method, placing a watermelon with ethylene-producing fruits like bananas or apples can speed up the ripening process. This is one of the most effective methods and here is how to do it:
How to Do:
Select one or two ripe bananas or apples, as they produce ethylene gas that aids in ripening.
Place the watermelon in a bowl or a paper bag along with the ripe bananas or apples.
If using a bag, seal it tightly to trap the ethylene gas. If using a bowl, you can cover it with a cloth.
Leave the setup in a warm area of your kitchen, away from direct sunlight.
Monitor the watermelon daily for ripeness, which should improve within a few days due to the ethylene gas.
3. The Sunlight Method
If you have a sunny spot in your home or yard, using sunlight can help ripen your watermelon naturally.
How to Do It:
Look for a place that receives direct sunlight for several hours a day.
Set the watermelon in that sunny location.
To ensure even ripening, rotate the watermelon every day.
After a few days, check for the signs of ripeness mentioned earlier.
4. The Warm Water Bath
A warm water bath can also help speed up the ripening process by mimicking the warm conditions of the vine:
How to Do It:
Use a tub or large bowl and fill it with warm (not boiling ) water.
Place the watermelon in the water, ensuring it is fully submerged.
Leave it in the warm water for about 30 minutes to an hour.
Take the watermelon out, dry it off, and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before checking for ripeness.
5. The Rice Method
Using rice to ripen watermelon may sound unusual, but it is a method that some swear by. The rice can trap ethylene gas can create a warm environment for ripening.
How to Do It:
Find a large container or bowl that can hold both the rice and the watermelon.
Pour enough uncooked rice into the container to create a bed for watermelon.
Nestle the watermelon into the rice, ensuring it's surrounded.
Cover the container with a lid or cloth and store it in a warm place.
After a few days, check the watermelon for ripeness.
6. Room Temperature Method
The room temperature method is a straightforward way to ripen watermelon naturally, allowing it to develop its sweetness and flavor over time. Here is how to do it:
How to Do It:
Choose an uncut watermelon that appears firm and heavy for its size, with a creamy yellow field spot.
Please do not cover the watermelon because letting it breathe will help the ripening process.
Check the watermelon daily for signs of ripeness, such as deeper color and a hollow sound when tapped.
Ideally, consume the watermelon within 7-10 days to enjoy it at its best flavor and texture.
7. Wrapping in a Blanket
The wrapping method is a unique technique to ripen watermelon by using a blanket or towel to create a warm environment that encourages the fruit to ripen naturally.
How to Do:
Choose a ripe-looking watermelon that is heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow field spot.
Use a clean, thick blanket or towel that can fully wrap around the watermelon.
Carefully wrap the watermelon in the blanket or towel, ensuring it is completely covered to retain warmth.
Set the wrapped watermelon in a warm spot in your kitchen or pantry, away from direct sunlight.
Monitor the watermelon daily for ripeness, checking for signs such as a deeper color and a hollow sound when tapped.
Once the watermelon has ripened to your liking, unwrap it and enjoy the sweet, juicy fruit.
Once you have successfully ripened your watermelon, proper storage is crucial to maintain its freshness and flavor. A ripe watermelon can last about a week in the fridge. Here is a detailed guide on how to store whole and cut watermelon effectively.
1. Room Temperature Storage
Duration: A whole, uncut watermelon can be stored at room temperature for about 1 to 2 weeks.
Ideal Conditions: Keep it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, which can cause it to spoil faster.
Check Regularly: Monitor the watermelon for any signs of spoilage, such as soft or an off smell.
2. Refrigeration
Duration: If you prefer, you can store a whole watermelon in the refrigerator for about 1 week.
Temperature: The ideal temperature for storing watermelon is between 50-59 degrees F, with 55 degrees being optimal.
Avoid Temperature Shock: If the watermelon was previously stored at room temperature, allow it to adjust gradually to the cooler temperature to prevent flavor loss.
3. Storing Cut Watermelon
Once cut, wrap the watermelon pieces tightly in plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss and exposure to air.
Alternatively, place the cut watermelon in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Cut watermelon should ideally be consumed within 3 to 5 days for the best taste and texture.
Remember that, while storing cut watermelon in the refrigerator do not store them with ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas, as they can accelerate the ripening process and lead to spoilage.
4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage
If you want to extend the shelf life of cut watermelon, remove the rind and cut it into cubes.
Place the cubes in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap before freezing.
Frozen watermelon can last about 6 to 8 months, although the texture may become softer upon thawing, making it suitable for smoothies or cold soups.
Additional Tips for Storing Watermelon
Always wash the outer rind of the watermelon before cutting to remove any dirt or pathogens that could transfer to the flesh.
If storing cut watermelon in a container, drain any excess juice every few days to keep it fresh and prevent sogginess.
For the best flavor and texture, consume watermelon as soon as possible after cutting.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when ripening watermelon:
1. Picking Watermelon Too Soon
One of the most common mistakes harvesting or picking watermelon before it is fully ripe. Sighs of an unripe watermelon include:
Green, immature stem: The tendril or curly vine opposite the fruit should be brown or dry when ripe.
White field spot: The spot where the watermelon rested in the ground should be creamy yellow color, not white.
A ripe watermelon will have a creamy yellow spot and rind that is not shiny.
2. Waiting Too Long to Pick
Leaving watermelon on the vine for too long can lead to overripeness. Overripe watermelon will have:
The rind will become soft and lose its glossy appearance.
The watermelon may develop bruises or dents from sitting on the ground too long.
Overripe watermelon will make a hollow, dull thud when tapped, rather than a crisp, hollow sound.
3. Improper Storage
Storing watermelon improperly can lead to spoilage and loss of flavor. Mistakes include:
Storing cut watermelon with fruits like bananas and apples can cause it to overripen and spoil faster.
Whole, uncut watermelon should be stored at room temperature, not in the refrigerator.
Cut watermelon should be wrapped tightly in plastic or stored in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and spoilage.
4. Storing Watermelon in the Fridge Before Ripening
Storing an unripe watermelon in the fridge can halt the ripening process and result in a less flavorful fruit. Always try to ripen the watermelon at room temperature first.
5. Cutting Too Early
Cutting a watermelon too early can result in a lack of sweetness and texture. Make sure to use the methods above to check for ripeness before cutting into it.
Watermelon is a versatile and refreshing fruit that can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways. Here are some creative ideas to incorporate watermelon into your meals and snacks:
Salads: Watermelon pairs beautifully with feta cheese in a classic watermelon feta salad, or you can mix it with strawberries and mint for a refreshing twist. It also works well in quinoa salads, adding sweetness and moisture.
Grilled Treats: Grilling watermelon enhances its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor. Serve it as a side dish or incorporate it into savory dishes like grilled salads.
Smoothies and Juices: Blend watermelon with yogurt, bananas, or other fruits for a delicious smoothie. You can also make refreshing drinks like watermelon agua fresca or slushies by blending watermelon with ice and lime juice.
Salsas and Sides: Dice watermelon and mix it into salsas for a sweet contrast to spicy dishes. It can also be pickled, turning the rind into a tangy snack or condiment.
Desserts: Watermelon can be transformed into fruit roll-ups or popsicles, making for a fun and healthy treat. You can also use it in cocktails, such as watermelon margaritas or sangrias.
Creative Snacks: For a fun snack, cut the watermelon into cubes or lollipops by inserting sticks into the rind. Sprinkle with chili powder or Tajin for an extra kick.
FAQs
Can You Ripen Watermelon After Cutting?
Once a watermelon is cut, it will not ripen further. It’s best to use the methods mentioned above to ripen the whole fruit before cutting.
How Long Does It Take for Watermelon to Ripen?
Watermelon typically takes about 80-90 days to ripen on the vine. If using at-home ripening methods, it may take a few days to a week to notice a difference.
Can Overripe Watermelon Be Salvaged?
If your watermelon is overripe, it might have a grainy texture and less sweetness. You can still use it in smoothies, salads, or desserts where the texture is less noticeable.
Author
Editor
Ranaj Ramakrishnan
Ranaj Ramakrishnan is a highly skilled and accomplished Chef, currently serving as the Head Chef at Inhabit Restaurant. With a rich career spanning prestigious hotels and resorts, Ranaj has held key culinary positions such as Sous Chef at Café de l'Esplanade, Executive Sous Chef at Fly High Kochi, and Sous Chef at Niraamaya Retreats and The Leela Kovalam, A Raviz Hotel. His earlier experience includes working at Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, Bulldozer Group Dubai, and Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers, where he refined his skills and leadership abilities in world-class kitchens.
Ranaj’s culinary journey began after his education at St. Joseph's High School, Mathilakam, and has taken him through a variety of international and Indian establishments. His passion for fine dining and attention to detail have established him as a respected figure in the hospitality industry.
Based in Thrissur, India, and originally from Koolimuttam, Ranaj continues to inspire and lead with his innovative approach to cooking and commitment to excellence in every dish.
