My friend Jessica swears by her watermelon-picking skills. Last summer, she brought the juiciest, sweetest watermelon to our picnic, and everyone was amazed. When I asked her secret, she laughed and said it was all about knowing what to look for.
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1. Look for the yellow spot
When choosing a watermelon, flip it over and check for a creamy yellow spot on the bottom. This patch, often called the “field spot,” is where the watermelon rested on the ground while growing. A deep, golden-yellow color indicates that the watermelon had plenty of time to ripen on the vine, which means it’ll be sweeter and more flavorful.
If the spot is white or pale yellow, it might not be fully ripe yet. Remember, the darker the yellow, the better the melon! This simple trick can make a huge difference in your watermelon-picking game.
2. Give it a good tap
Time to channel your inner musician! Gently tap the watermelon with your knuckles and listen carefully. You’re looking for a deep, hollow sound, similar to thumping on a drum. This resonant sound indicates that the watermelon is ripe and full of juice.
If you hear a dull thud instead, it might mean the watermelon is overripe or not quite ready. Don’t be shy about tapping a few melons to compare the sounds. With a little practice, you’ll become a pro at this melodious method of watermelon selection.
3. Check the weight
When it comes to watermelons, heavier is definitely better! Pick up a few watermelons of similar size and compare their weights. The heavier one will likely be juicier and more satisfying. A ripe watermelon is packed with water, which gives it that delightful weight.
Don’t be afraid to do a little weightlifting in the produce section. Your efforts will pay off when you slice into a perfectly ripe, juicy watermelon at home. Just think of it as a mini workout with a delicious reward!
4. Look for a dull surface
Contrary to what you might think, a shiny watermelon isn’t always the best choice. A ripe watermelon should have a dull, matte finish on its surface. This slightly lackluster appearance is actually a good sign that the melon is ready to eat.
If the watermelon is too shiny, it might be underripe. The dull surface develops as the watermelon matures on the vine. So, when you’re browsing through the watermelon pile, opt for the ones that look a bit less glossy. Your taste buds will thank you later!
5. Check for uniform shape
A perfectly symmetrical watermelon isn’t just pretty – it’s also a sign of quality. Look for watermelons that have a consistent oval or round shape without any irregular bumps or lumps. These well-formed melons have likely grown without any interruptions or inconsistencies in watering or nutrients.
Avoid watermelons with odd shapes or bulges, as these could indicate that the melon experienced periods of inconsistent growth. A smooth, evenly-shaped watermelon is more likely to have a consistent texture and flavor throughout.
6. Examine the stem
Take a moment to check out the stem end of the watermelon. A dried-out, brown stem is actually a good sign! It means the watermelon was allowed to fully ripen on the vine before being harvested. If the stem is green, it might have been picked too early and may not be as sweet.
Don’t worry if you can’t see the stem – sometimes it’s removed during harvesting. In that case, focus on the other signs of ripeness. But if you can spot that brown, shriveled stem, you’ve likely found a winner!
7. Size matters (sometimes)
When it comes to watermelons, bigger isn’t always better. Medium-sized watermelons often offer the perfect balance of sweetness and juiciness. They’re typically about 10-15 pounds and feel heavy for their size.
However, if you’re feeding a crowd, don’t shy away from larger melons. Just make sure they meet the other criteria for ripeness. And if you’re cooking for one or two, consider opting for a personal-sized watermelon. These smaller varieties are becoming increasingly popular and can be just as delicious as their larger counterparts.
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By following these seven easy tips, you’ll be well on your way to picking the perfect watermelon every time.