How do I store watermelon rind pickles?

Once you've made your Watermelon Rind Pickles, find out the best ways to store them for long-term enjoyment. Keep the pickles fresh and crunchy!

You'll need

Items needed to answer the question, How do I store Watermelon Rind Pickles. Items include: Watermelon Rind Salt Vinegar Spices (peppercorns, cinnamon sticks, cloves, etc.) Canning Jars, Lids, and Rings

Watermelon Rind 1 watermelon rind
Salt 1 cup
Vinegar 2 cups
Spices (peppercorns, cinnamon sticks, cloves, etc.) to taste
Canning Jars, Lids, and Rings enough to fit the pickles

Take note
Be sure to wear protective gloves when handling hot jars and boiling water.

1

Prepare the Pickles

Slice off the green skin from the watermelon rind and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Put the rind pieces in a large pot and cover them with water. Add salt, vinegar, and spices like peppercorns, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer until the rinds are tender.

2

Prepare the Jars

While the pickles are simmering, wash your canning jars, lids, and rings in hot, soapy water. Rinse them well and place them in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes to sterilize. Carefully remove the jars from the hot water and set them aside to cool slightly.

3

Pack the Jars

Using tongs, carefully pack the hot pickles into the sterilized jars, leaving about half an inch of headspace at the top. Make sure the rinds are fully submerged in the pickling liquid. Remove any air bubbles by running a knife or skewer along the sides of the jar.

4

Seal and Store

Wipe the rim of each jar with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a good seal. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the rings until they're fingertip-tight. Now it's time to get the jars ready for storage! You have two options: water bath canning or refrigerator pickles.

5

Option 1: Water Bath Canning

If you choose the water bath canning method, place the filled jars back into the pot of boiling water, making sure they're fully submerged. Boil for about 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing. Carefully remove the jars from the water and let them cool on a towel. Store in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Remember, canned pickles need time to develop their flavors, so be patient!

6

Option 2: Refrigerator Pickles

For a quicker option, you can store your watermelon rind pickles in the refrigerator. Simply let the jars cool to room temperature and then transfer them to the fridge. These pickles will last for about a month, but let's be honest, they'll probably be devoured much sooner!