Watermelon is one of the most refreshing fruits of summer, but have you ever wished you could enjoy its sweet, juicy flavor during the colder months? Thanks to an old-fashioned canning method, you can capture that incredible taste of summer and enjoy it all winter long! Grandma’s tried-and-true recipe for canning watermelon juice preserves the fruit’s flavor and actually makes it taste even richer and more delicious than fresh.
Why Can Watermelon Juice?
Watermelon is over 90% water, making it incredibly hydrating, but it’s also packed with essential vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness. Canning the juice allows you to enjoy this refreshing drink even when watermelons are out of season. And as many people say, the canned version somehow tastes even better, with a slightly intensified sweetness and depth of flavor.
Grandma’s Simple Recipe for Canning Watermelon Juice
Ingredients:
1 large ripe watermelon (yielding about 10-12 cups of juice)
2-3 tablespoons of sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice (for freshness and natural preservation)
Supplies:
Clean glass canning jars with lids
Large pot for boiling water
Strainer or cheesecloth
Ladle and funnel (for easy pouring)
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Watermelon
Start by cutting the watermelon into pieces, removing the rind and seeds. Place the chunks in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Strain the Juice
Pour the blended watermelon through a strainer or cheesecloth to remove any pulp, seeds, or solids. This step ensures a smooth, pure juice that’s ideal for canning.
3. Add Lemon Juice and Optional Sugar
Transfer the strained juice to a large pot on the stove. Add lemon juice, which not only enhances the flavor but also helps with preservation. Add a few tablespoons of sugar if you like it sweeter, stirring until fully dissolved.
4. Heat the Juice
Gently heat the juice over medium heat until it reaches a simmer. Keep it at a low simmer for 5-10 minutes, but do not let it boil. This gentle heating process helps to preserve the juice without compromising the fresh taste.
5. Sterilize the Jars
While the juice is simmering, sterilize the glass canning jars by boiling them in hot water for about 10 minutes. This helps ensure that no bacteria will spoil the juice during storage.
6. Fill and Seal the Jars
Carefully ladle the hot watermelon juice into the sterilized jars, leaving about half an inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on, and securely tighten them.
7. Process the Jars in a Water Bath
Place the sealed jars in a large pot of boiling water, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Process for about 15-20 minutes. This step creates an airtight seal and ensures the juice will stay fresh all winter.
8. Cool and Store
Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool at room temperature. Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. Properly canned watermelon juice can last for up to a year.
How to Enjoy Canned Watermelon Juice in Winter
When winter arrives and you’re craving a taste of summer, simply open a jar and pour yourself a glass of that delicious, preserved watermelon juice! You can enjoy it straight, mix it with other fruit juices, or even use it as a base for smoothies and cocktails.
Benefits of Canned Watermelon Juice
Year-Round Enjoyment: Keeps the flavor of fresh watermelon available even in winter.
Rich in Nutrients: Watermelon juice retains its vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and natural hydration benefits.
Convenient and Delicious: The rich, sweet flavor makes it ideal for any occasion, from a refreshing drink to a smoothie ingredient.
Conclusion: Taste Summer All Year with Grandma’s Canning Method
Canning watermelon juice is a fantastic way to preserve one of summer’s most beloved fruits. Grandma’s recipe is simple, delicious, and makes the juice taste even better than fresh! Try it for yourself, and you’ll be sipping on memories of sunny days all winter long.
