Watermelon Lime-Ginger Slushies

I used watermelon from last year that was already in the freezer to make this. Since watermelon is about the worst fruit for someone who is avoiding sugar, most of last years crop is still there. I know I have seen Ontario watermelons for sale, though.

We are only growing the golden-rind watermelons this year, more because we want to finish the breeding project than because we want watermelon. It's been a really terrible year for growing watermelon and we struggled to get a sufficient number germinated and growing early on. Once it finally warmed up they did okay, but they were so behind I worried they wouldn't ripen before it got cold again. However, there are lots of smallish but okay fruits out there, and the vines are starting to yellow, so presumably ripeness is not too far away. Meanwhile, this was a lovely treat on one of the very hot muggy days we've been having.  

4 servings
30 minutes advance preparation
chill time in between
10 minutes to make the slushies

4 cups frozen watermelon pieces, without seeds
2 cups water
1/4 cup sliced ginger
the zest of 1 lime
2 tablespoons honey

The watermelon must be frozen at least 2 hours in advance. Cut it from the rind and pick out the seeds. Freeze the watermelon in pieces no larger than an inch thick and which will fit into your blender or food processor.

Meanwhile, put the water, sliced ginger, and lime zest into a pot. Be sure to give the ginger and limes a good scrub before slicing or zesting them, though there is no need to peel the ginger. Bring them up to a simmer and simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. While they heat, measure in the honey and stir until dissolved.

Strain the liquid, discarding the solids, and allow it to cool then keep it chilled until you are ready to make the slushies.

Put half the frozen watermelon and half the lime-ginger syrup into the blender or food processor, and process until very smooth. Pour into 2 glasses. Repeat with the remaining frozen watermelon and syrup for another 2 servings, then or at a later time.




Last year at this time I made Beans & Cherry Tomatoes in Mint Vinaigrette. 

Posted in: Ontario Food