It’s a hot summer day, and you have a juicy slice of watermelon, but instead of the usual red, it’s a vibrant yellow. Yes, you heard it right. We’re talking about yellow watermelon, a delightful twist on the classic summer fruit.
It’s not just the color that’s different. This sunny-hued variety brings a unique taste to the table, a sweet surprise that’s sure to pique your curiosity.
Yellow watermelon is a perfect treat for those lazy, sun-drenched afternoons. It’s as refreshing as its red counterpart but with a flavor that has a sweetness reminiscent of honey and lingers on your palate.
But, yellow watermelon is more than just a colorful novelty. So, let’s cut off the rind and discover what makes yellow watermelon a must-try.
How Does Yellow Watermelon Taste?
When you first bite into a yellow watermelon, you might be expecting the familiar taste of its red cousin. But you’re in for a surprise. Yellow watermelon has a sweetness that’s slightly different. It’s a bit like honey, a rich, mellow sweetness that’s not quite as sharp as a red watermelon.
Now, don’t get me wrong. It’s still unmistakably watermelon, with that juicy, mouth-watering freshness we all love. But the yellow variety has a subtler flavor. It’s less tangy, more smooth. It’s the kind of taste that makes you pause, trying to pinpoint what makes it different.
And here’s a fun fact. Some people say yellow watermelon has a hint of apricot or even vanilla. It’s a subtle note, but you might just taste it once you know to look for it. These little surprises make trying new foods such a joy, don’t you think?
Types Of Yellow Watermelon
- Yellow Crimson Watermelon: This variety is known for its deep yellow color and high sugar content. It has a sweet, almost honey-like flavor that is less tangy than the red varieties.
- Desert King Watermelon: Desert King has light yellow flesh with a mellow and sweet flavor. It’s a favorite for those who prefer a less intense sweetness.
- Yellow Doll Watermelon: Yellow Doll watermelons are small, round, and have bright yellow flesh. They have a crisp texture and a sweet, refreshing taste.
Comparing Yellow Watermelon With Other Fruits
- Red Watermelon: Red watermelon is the more common variety. It has a bright red flesh and a sweet, slightly tangy flavor. Compared to yellow watermelon, red watermelon has a more pronounced tanginess despite it being mild.
- Cantaloupe: Cantaloupe has a sweet, slightly musky flavor. It’s less juicy than watermelon and has a denser texture. The sweetness of cantaloupe is more intense than that of yellow watermelon.
- Honeydew Melon: Honeydew has a light, subtly sweet flavor. It’s less sweet than yellow watermelon, but it has a similar refreshing quality. The texture of honeydew is also denser than watermelon.
Do Yellow Watermelons Taste Good?
If you’re a fan of sweet, juicy fruits, then yes, yellow watermelons do taste good.
They have a unique sweetness that’s a bit like honey and is just as refreshing as the red watermelons you’re used to. Plus, the vibrant yellow color can make for a fun surprise at picnics or summer parties.
However, not everyone might enjoy the taste of yellow watermelon. If you’re expecting the tangy sweetness of a red watermelon, you might find the mellow, honey-like flavor of a yellow watermelon a bit different. It’s still sweet, but the flavor is less intense.
The taste of a yellow watermelon can also depend on its freshness and ripeness. A perfectly ripe yellow watermelon is juicy and sweet, while an underripe one might be a bit bland. Overripe watermelons, on the other hand, can have a mushy texture and a less appealing taste.
Eating yellow watermelon raw is the best way to enjoy its unique flavor. Cooking or freezing it can change the texture and dilute the taste. So, if you plan to try yellow watermelon, enjoy it fresh and raw for the best experience.
What Does Yellow Watermelon Look Like?
Yellow watermelon, on the outside, looks just like your regular watermelon. It has the same green, striped rind that’s characteristic of watermelons. But slice it open, and you’re greeted with a vibrant yellow interior, a delightful contrast to the green exterior.
When you’re shopping for a yellow watermelon, you won’t be able to tell it apart from a red one just by looking at the rind. They’re usually labeled as yellow watermelon, so keep an eye out for any signs or labels. Don’t hesitate to ask the vendor if you’re shopping at a farmer’s market.
Choosing a good yellow watermelon is similar to choosing a red one. Look for a uniform shape, whether it’s round or oblong. The rind should be relatively smooth and free of cuts or bruises.
One trick is to look for the field spot where the watermelon was resting on the ground. It should be a creamy yellow color, which indicates that the watermelon is ripe.
And don’t forget the tap test: a ripe watermelon should have a hollow sound when you tap it.
Do Yellow Watermelons Have Seeds?
Just like their red counterparts, yellow watermelons can have seeds. These seeds can be black, brown, white, or even yellow. The color usually depends on the variety of the watermelon and its level of maturity.
Now, you might be wondering, are these seeds edible? Technically, yes. Watermelon seeds, including those from yellow watermelons, are safe to eat. In fact, in some cultures, they’re roasted and eaten as a snack. However, they have a hard shell and a bitter taste, so most people prefer to spit them out.
You can also find seedless varieties of yellow watermelon. These are especially popular for those who prefer to enjoy their watermelon without the interruption of seeds.
But remember, even “seedless” watermelons can have a few seeds. These are usually white and softer than the black or brown seeds.
How To Make Yellow Watermelon Taste Good
Yellow watermelon is delicious on its own, but there are a few tricks to enhance its flavor even more.
- Chill it: Yellow watermelon tastes best when it’s cold. Before you cut into it, put it in the fridge for a few hours. The chill will enhance its sweet, refreshing flavor.
- Salt it: It might sound strange, but a sprinkle of salt can bring out the watermelon’s sweetness. Just a pinch will do. Try it, and you might be surprised!
- Pair it with herbs: Fresh herbs like mint or basil can complement the sweetness of the watermelon. Sprinkle some chopped herbs on top of your sliced watermelon for a refreshing twist.
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some chili powder or cayenne pepper on your watermelon. The contrast between the sweet watermelon and the spicy chili can be quite delightful.
- Squeeze some citrus: Lime or lemon juice squeeze can add a tangy contrast to the sweet watermelon. It’s a simple way to add a new dimension to the flavor.
How To Use Yellow Watermelon In Recipes And Side Dishes
Yellow watermelon can be a fantastic addition to a variety of dishes. Its sweet, refreshing flavor can complement many other ingredients. Here are some popular recipes and side dishes where you can use yellow watermelon:
Recipes
- Yellow Watermelon Salad: This is a simple and refreshing dish that’s perfect for hot summer days. Combine chunks of yellow watermelon with feta cheese, fresh mint, and a drizzle of olive oil. The salty feta and the fresh mint perfectly balance the sweetness of the watermelon.
- Yellow Watermelon Smoothie: Blend yellow watermelon with a banana, a splash of orange juice, and a handful of ice. This smoothie is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and hydration.
- Yellow Watermelon Gazpacho: This is a twist on the traditional Spanish cold soup. Blend yellow watermelon with cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and a splash of vinegar. Chill before serving. The result is a refreshing, sweet-and-savory soup that’s perfect for hot weather.
Side Dishes
- Grilled Yellow Watermelon: Slice the watermelon into thick rounds and grill them for a few minutes on each side. The grilling process caramelizes the sugars in the watermelon, enhancing its sweetness. Serve it with a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Yellow Watermelon Salsa: Dice yellow watermelon and combine it with chopped cucumber, jalapeno, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. This salsa is a refreshing accompaniment to grilled fish or chicken.
- Yellow Watermelon Pickles: This is a great way to use the rind of the watermelon. Peel the green skin off the rind, cut it into chunks, and pickle it in a brine of vinegar, sugar, and spices. The result is a crunchy, sweet-and-sour pickle that’s great with sandwiches or charcuterie.
Yellow Watermelon FAQs
What is the difference between yellow and red watermelon?
Yellow watermelons and red watermelons are quite similar in texture and sweetness. The main difference lies in their color due to the different types of carotenoids they contain. Red watermelons contain lycopene, which gives them their red color, while yellow watermelons lack lycopene and have yellow pigments instead.
How can you tell if a yellow watermelon is ripe?
Identifying a ripe yellow watermelon involves similar cues as a red one. Look for a uniform shape and dull skin. It should feel heavy for its size. The ground spot where the watermelon was resting on the ground should be a creamy yellow color. Lastly, give it a tap; a ripe watermelon will have a hollow sound.
Can you use yellow watermelon in the same recipes as red watermelon?
Absolutely! Yellow watermelon can be used interchangeably with red watermelon in most recipes. It’s great in salads, smoothies, and fruit salsas. Its sweet, slightly honey-like flavor can add a unique twist to your dishes.
My Tasty Thoughts
Let’s chat about why you might want to give yellow watermelon a whirl.
First off, it’s a refreshing change of pace. If you’re the type who enjoys shaking things up in the kitchen, this could be a fun way to do just that. It’s not every day you get to serve a watermelon that’s not red or pink!
On the flip side, there might be a few hurdles to jump. Yellow watermelon isn’t as readily available as its red counterpart. You might have to do a bit of hunting to find it in your local grocery store or farmer’s market. And, depending on where you live, it might only be available during certain seasons or not at all.
Another thing to consider is that yellow watermelon, while delicious, doesn’t offer a drastically different taste experience from red watermelon. It’s a subtle difference, more of a novelty than a game-changer. So, if you’re expecting a completely new flavor sensation, you might be slightly disappointed.
But hey, don’t let that deter you! Part of the joy of cooking is trying new things, right? And who knows, you might find that you prefer the slightly sweeter taste of yellow watermelon. So, if you spot one in your local store, why not give it a try?
