Taking seeds out of watermelon can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s easy to remove the seeds and enjoy sweet, seedless watermelon slices. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the step-by-step process for seeding watermelon, from choosing the right watermelon to harvesting the seeds. Read on to become a watermelon seeding pro!
Choosing the Right Watermelon
Not all watermelons are created equal when it comes to seeding. Here are some tips for picking a watermelon variety that will make removing the seeds easier:
- Select a smaller watermelon – Smaller watermelons tend to have smaller, softer seeds that are easier to remove.
- Choose a seedless variety – Seedless watermelons have tiny, edible seeds that don’t need to be removed.
- Opt for an heirloom variety – Heirloom watermelons like Moon and Stars tend to have larger seeds that separate easily from the flesh.
- Avoid giant melons – Larger watermelons usually have tougher, more embedded seeds that can be challenging to take out.
Once you’ve selected the right melon, it’s time to get seeding!
Cutting the Watermelon
Start by cutting your watermelon in half lengthwise. Use a large, sharp knife to slice through the middle of the melon from top to bottom. Be sure to work on a clean, sturdy cutting board for this step.
If working with a particularly large melon, you may want to slice it into quarters or eighths to make it more manageable. Just be sure to cut from the top to the bottom following the ridges on the melon.
Removing the Seeds
Here comes the fun part – actually scooping out those seeds! There are a few techniques you can use:
Spoon Method
Use a large metal spoon to scoop under the seeds and gently pry them from the flesh of the melon. Angle the spoon sideways as you scoop to really get under the seeds.
Fingers Method
For a more hands-on approach, use your fingers. Make a “claw” shape with your hand and rake it through the flesh to grab seeds as you go. This takes some practice to get the hang of.
Water Method
For the most efficient seed removal, use running water:
- Hold the open watermelon half under running water in the sink, cut side up.
- Use your hand to gently swish and agitate the flesh until the seeds start separating.
- The flowing water will carry the loose seeds down the drain as you rub.
This method leaves you with clean, seedless melon flesh with minimal effort!
Seed Harvesting (Optional)
If you want to save the seeds from your watermelon, here’s how:
- Scoop seeds into a colander or strainer and rinse thoroughly under water.
- Pick out any bits of flesh that remain on the seeds.
- Spread seeds on paper towels or newspaper.
- Allow seeds to dry for 1-2 weeks until completely hard.
- Store dried seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Your harvested watermelon seeds are ready to plant next season!
Cutting Seeded Watermelon
Once your melon is seeded, it’s time for the best part – eating it! Here are some tips for cutting watermelon wedges, cubes, and balls after removing the seeds:
- Cut melon into 1-2 inch thick wedges or slices.
- Use a sharp, serrated knife to easily cut through the melon.
- For cubes, make evenly spaced cuts along the wedges.
- For balls, use a melon baller tool to scoop from the flesh.
- Keep sliced melon refrigerated until ready to eat.
Now it’s time to enjoy your refreshing seedless watermelon! Try adding it to fruit salads, blending into smoothies, or freezing into popsicles.
Common Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about removing watermelon seeds:
Should you eat the white part of watermelon?
Yes! The white part of watermelon, called the rind, is completely edible and packed with nutrients like vitamins A, C, and B6. The rind contains less sugar than the red flesh and has a mild, cucumber-like flavor. Try pickling or candying the rind instead of tossing it out.
Can you blend watermelon seeds?
It’s not recommended to blend watermelon seeds, even if they are soft. The outer shells are very hard and can potentially damage blenders. For seedless watermelon puree, scoop the seeds out by hand before blending the flesh.
Do seedless watermelons have seeds?
Seedless watermelons do contain small, edible white seeds. They are sterile seeds that don’t develop into mature black seeds. While small amounts of soft seeds can be blended into drinks or eaten whole, you may still want to remove them for smooth texture.
What are watermelon seeds good for?
Watermelon seeds are highly nutritious. They contain protein, magnesium, iron, zinc and more. Shelled seeds can be roasted for a snack or sprouted and eaten raw. The seeds can also be dried and pressed into an oil.
Some people even enjoy making watermelon seed tea by boiling dried seeds in water for several minutes.
Conclusion
Removing watermelon seeds doesn’t have to be an intimidating kitchen task. With the right melon variety, tools and techniques, it’s easy to reap all the juicy, sweet rewards of seedless watermelon flesh. Now go forth and start seeding those melons!