Crispy and Sweet: Deep-Fried Watermelon Recipe

Welcome to my deep-fried watermelon recipe! Yes, you read that right. Watermelon, the quintessential summer fruit, is perfect for refreshing snacks and desserts, but have you ever tried it deep-fried? This recipe utilizes the technique of frying, which is often used for many types of food, to create a unique and delicious dessert or snack.

Now, I know what you may be thinking: “Fried watermelon? That seems horrible.” But trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked. The light batter deep-fried to a golden brown creates a crispy exterior that perfectly complements the juicy sweetness of the watermelon inside. And to top it off, a dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness that makes this dish irresistible.

This recipe deep fries watermelon chunks in a light batter, creating fried watermelon bites that are perfect for a summer party or a unique dessert. This recipe is easy to follow and takes only a few ingredients to create a snack that will have everyone asking for more.

So, if you’re intrigued by the idea of deep-fried watermelon, let’s get started with the ingredient list!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I know that when you hear “deep-fried watermelon,” it might sound like a strange or unappetizing concept. But trust me, you’re going to love this recipe!

First of all, watermelon is a refreshing and delicious fruit that’s perfect for summertime. But when you deep-fry it, it takes on a whole new level of flavor and texture. The outside becomes crispy and golden brown, while the inside stays juicy and sweet.

This recipe utilizes a special technique for deep-frying that results in a light and crispy coating, rather than a heavy and greasy one. By dipping the watermelon in a light batter of flour, cornstarch, and egg whites, the coating becomes firm and stays put during frying.

And the best part? You can customize this recipe to your liking! Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a unique dessert or snack, or pair it with a savory dish like a grilled steak for a surprising and delicious contrast.

So give this recipe a try, and I promise you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how delicious deep-fried watermelon can be. It’s a fun and creative way to enjoy this classic summer fruit, and it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering or barbecue.

Ingredient List

Before you begin, make sure you have all the ingredients you need. For this recipe, you will need watermelon, cornstarch, flour, egg whites, water, and oil for deep frying. Here is the complete list of ingredients you will need to make this delicious Deep-Fried Watermelon Recipe:

• 6-8 pounds of watermelon (1 watermelon)
• 1/4 cup of cornstarch
• 2 large egg whites
• 2 teaspoons of water
• 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• Oil for deep frying (enough to fill a deep pot or fryer with at least 4 cups of oil)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

The Recipe How-To

Now, let’s get to the fun part, the recipe how-to! This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and is perfect for serving at a summer BBQ or as a unique dessert or snack. Here are the steps to make the perfect deep-fried watermelon:

Ingredients:

• 6-8 pounds of watermelon, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1-2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1-2 cups of cornstarch
• 2 large egg whites
• 2 teaspoons of water
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour and cornstarch until well combined.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites and water until frothy.
3. Dip the watermelon pieces into the egg white mixture, then toss them in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F.
5. Fry the watermelon pieces in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot, until golden brown and the coating becomes firm (about 2-3 minutes).
6. Once the watermelon is fried, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Dust the fried watermelon bites with powdered sugar and serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Results:

• Make sure the oil is hot enough before starting to fry the watermelon. If it’s not hot enough, the coating won’t set properly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot when frying the watermelon. This can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy and greasy watermelon.
• If you prefer a lighter batter, use more cornstarch than flour in the coating mixture.
• If you have any leftover fried watermelon, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it in the oven or air fryer until crispy.

Substitutions and Variations:

• For a vegan version of this recipe, substitute the egg whites with a flax egg or a vegan egg replacer.
• Try coating the watermelon in panko breadcrumbs instead of flour and cornstarch for a crunchy texture.
• Don’t discard the watermelon rind! Use it to make watermelon katsu or grilled watermelon steak recipe.

Now that you know how to make this unique dessert/snack, it’s time to give it a try. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different coatings and variations to make it your own. Trust me, once you try this deep-fried watermelon, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been utilizing this technique for frying many types of food before.

Substitutions and Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many ways to change up this deep-fried watermelon recipe. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try.

– Flour: If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s suitable for frying.

– Batter: For a lighter batter, you can use egg whites instead of whole eggs. Whisk together two large egg whites and 2 teaspoons of water until frothy, then add it to the dry ingredients. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the batter to make it crispier.

– Coating: Instead of coating the watermelon with flour and cornstarch, you can use panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a crunchy texture.

– Seasonings: Add some spices to the batter to give it more flavor. Try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

– Dipping sauce: Serve the deep-fried watermelon with a dipping sauce of your choice. A drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream would all be delicious.

– Watermelon bites: Instead of cutting the watermelon into large chunks, try cutting them into bite-sized pieces for a fun party snack. Coat each piece with the batter and deep-fry them until golden brown.

– Vegan option: For a vegan version of this recipe, you can use aquafaba instead of egg whites. Aquafaba is the liquid from a can of chickpeas, which can be whipped up to form stiff peaks like egg whites.

With these substitutions and variations, you can create a unique twist on this classic deep-fried watermelon recipe. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite combination!

Serving and Pairing

Deep-fried watermelon is an exciting and unique dessert snack that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. When it comes to serving, there are a few different approaches you can take. If you’re looking for a fun and festive way to present the dish, try arranging the fried watermelon bites on a platter and dusting them with a generous amount of powdered sugar. This will give them a lovely, snow-like appearance that is both appealing and delicious.

For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the fried watermelon bites alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of the crispy, sweet watermelon and the cool, creamy ice cream is simply divine, and makes for a truly memorable dessert experience.

As far as pairing goes, there are a few different directions you can take. If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, try pairing the deep-fried watermelon with a rich and juicy steak. The sweetness of the watermelon will help to balance out the richness of the meat, creating a perfectly balanced meal.

If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, try pairing the fried watermelon with a fresh, crisp salad. The coolness of the salad will complement the warm, crispy watermelon, creating a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing the deep-fried watermelon with a spicy and savory dish, such as watermelon katsu or vegan watermelon stir-fry. The sweetness of the watermelon will help to balance out the heat of the spices, creating a complex and flavorful meal that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Regardless of how you choose to serve and pair this unique and delicious dish, one thing is for sure: deep-fried watermelon is a true culinary adventure that is not to be missed!

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

While deep-fried watermelon is best enjoyed fresh, you can still make it ahead of time and store it properly to maintain its texture and flavor. After frying the watermelon, let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, you can store the deep-fried watermelon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

When reheating the deep-fried watermelon, you have two options: oven or air fryer. To reheat in the oven, preheat it to 350°F and place the deep-fried watermelon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-6 minutes or until heated through. To reheat in an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F and place the deep-fried watermelon bites in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket once halfway through the cooking time.

It’s important to note that reheating the deep-fried watermelon may affect its texture and crispiness. It’s best to reheat only what you plan to eat to maintain the quality of the dish. Also, avoid reheating the watermelon rinds as they tend to become tough and chewy after frying.

If you want to make the batter ahead of time, you can mix the dry ingredients (flour, cornstarch, and powdered sugar) in a bowl and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to fry the watermelon, just add the wet ingredients (egg whites and water) to the dry mixture and stir until smooth.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy deep-fried watermelon anytime you want without compromising its quality and taste.

Tips for Perfect Results

Now that you know how to make deep-fried watermelon, let me share some tips to ensure perfect results every time.

1. Keep the batter light

The key to a crispy and delicious crust is a light batter. Use a mixture of flour and cornstarch to achieve a light and airy texture. Dip the watermelon pieces in the batter lightly, ensuring that they are fully coated but not weighed down with excess batter.

2. Heat the oil to the right temperature

It is essential to heat the oil to the right temperature of 350°F for deep frying. This temperature ensures that the watermelon fries evenly and does not absorb too much oil. Use a thermometer to measure the temperature and adjust the heat accordingly.

3. Fry in small batches

Frying too many watermelon pieces at once can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy and greasy fries. Fry in small batches of 6-8 pieces at a time to ensure that the oil temperature remains constant.

4. Drain excess oil

Once the watermelon fries are cooked, use a slotted spoon or a wire rack to remove them from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil.

5. Dust with powdered sugar

For a unique and delicious dessert or snack, dust the deep-fried watermelon with powdered sugar. It adds a sweet touch and complements the crispy exterior of the watermelon bites.

6. Experiment with variations

While deep-fried watermelon is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with variations. Try adding different spices to the batter, such as cinnamon or cayenne pepper, or dipping the watermelon in a sweet or savory sauce.

By following these tips, you can achieve perfect results every time you make deep-fried watermelon. So go ahead and give this unique and delicious recipe a try!

FAQ

Now that you know how to make this delicious deep-fried watermelon recipe, you may have some questions. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you troubleshoot any issues you may encounter while making this recipe.

Is deep-fried watermelon good?

Fried watermelon may seem like an unconventional choice, but its taste is surprisingly delicious. Despite not being the healthiest option, it is a rare treat that is worth trying. The process of frying watermelon follows the same principles as frying other foods.

Does fried watermelon taste good?

At first glance, the idea of fried watermelon might seem unappetizing or even repulsive. However, this seemingly odd combination of flavors and textures is actually a delightful invention that is sure to surprise your taste buds. The taste is truly exceptional and unparalleled, and once you try it, you won’t be able to resist its deliciousness. Despite its unconventional nature, fried watermelon is a must-try dish that will leave you craving for more.

Can you deep fry fruit?

One can turn juicy strawberries into an even juicier and whimsical treat by coating them with a light batter and deep-frying them until they turn golden. However, it is important to be careful and use a candy thermometer to ensure that the oil is heated to the right temperature. Once the strawberries are fried, a light dusting of confectioners’ sugar can be added to bring a touch of sweetness to the dish.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, deep-fried watermelon is a unique and delicious dessert that you should definitely try at least once. This recipe utilizes a technique of deep frying that is commonly used for many types of food, and it works surprisingly well with watermelon. The light batter used for this recipe gives a crispy texture to the watermelon which is perfect for snacking. Additionally, the powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness that balances the flavors perfectly.

If you’re looking for a creative and fun way to enjoy watermelon, this recipe is definitely worth trying. It’s a great way to impress your friends and family with something new and exciting. And the best part is that it’s easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients.

So go ahead and give this deep-fried watermelon recipe a try. You won’t regret it!

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