How to Can Watermelon in Jars: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients:
1 large watermelon
6 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons salt
2 teaspoons citric acid
Boiling water

Instructions:
Preparation:
Clean the Watermelon:
Wash the watermelon thoroughly using bicarbonate of soda. This ensures the fruit is clean and safe for canning.

Cut the Watermelon:
Slice the watermelon into large pieces. Then, cut these slices into smaller, bite-sized pieces.

Canning Process:
Fill the Jars:

Place the watermelon pieces into clean, sterilized jars. The recommended jar size for this recipe is 2.5 liters.

Add Boiling Water:

Pour boiling water into the jars until they are full. Cover the jars and let them sit for 20 minutes.

Prepare the Dressing:

After 20 minutes, pour the water from the jars into a pot.
Add 6 tablespoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of salt, and 2 teaspoons of citric acid to the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the Dressing:

Once the dressing has boiled, pour it back into the jars over the watermelon pieces.
Seal the Jars:

Close the jars with sterilized lids to ensure a proper seal. This step is crucial to prevent contamination and preserve the watermelon.
Storage:
Cooling:
Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them.

Storing:
Store the cooled jars in a dark, cool place, preferably a cellar. This environment helps maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of the canned watermelon.
Final Tips:
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the taste of summer all year round with delicious, canned watermelon. Happy canning!