Sweet Summer in a Bottle: Homemade Watermelon Cordial Recipe

Hey everyone!

Summer is in full swing here at Straight Arrow Farms, and I figured what better way to capture its refreshing essence than with a homemade watermelon cordial? This sweet and tangy syrup is perfect for creating refreshing drinks, adding a splash of summer to cocktails, or even drizzling over desserts. It's incredibly easy to make, and you'll be amazed at the vibrant flavor you can achieve with just a few simple ingredients.

Why Watermelon Cordial?

Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit, and turning it into a cordial allows you to enjoy its delightful flavor long after the season ends. Plus, making it yourself means you control the sweetness and can use fresh, high-quality ingredients.

What You'll Need:

• 800g cubed watermelon (rind removed)
• 300g sugar
• 200ml water
• 80ml lemon juice

Let's Get Started!

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a large saucepan, add your cubed watermelon, sugar, and water.
2. Simmer and Soften: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and cook for about 20 minutes. You'll notice the watermelon breaking down and the sugar dissolving.
3. Blend and Strain: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Use a stick blender to blend the mixture until smooth. Then, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any solids, leaving you with a smooth liquid.
4. Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice. This adds a lovely tanginess that balances the sweetness of the watermelon.
5. Bottle and Store: Transfer your watermelon cordial to a sterilized glass bottle. Seal it tightly and store it in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions:

• Refreshing Soda: Dilute 1-2 tablespoons of watermelon cordial in a glass of ice and chilled soda water for a simple and delicious summer drink.
• Cocktail Mixer: Add a splash of watermelon cordial to your favorite cocktails, like a vodka soda or gin and tonic. Garnish with a slice of lime or a few mint leaves.
• Dessert Drizzle: Drizzle the cordial over ice cream, yogurt, or even pancakes for a sweet and fruity topping.

Pro Tips:

• Use a ripe, juicy watermelon for the best flavor.
• Don't be afraid to adjust the amount of sugar and lemon juice to your taste preferences.
• For an extra layer of flavor, add a few sprigs of fresh mint or rosemary to the saucepan while cooking.

Storage:

Your homemade watermelon cordial will keep in the refrigerator for up to one week. Alternatively, you can freeze in an ice cube tray, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer safe container for long term freezer storage and use during the winter!

This watermelon cordial recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of summer all season long. Give it a try and let me know how you like it!