The Watermelon Rind Sherbet is a bright, probiotic-rich fermented drink that transforms watermelon’s natural sweetness into a refreshing gut tonic. Lightly fizzy, hydrating, and subtly tangy, this summer ferment is perfect for cooling your system and supporting digestion — all while reducing food waste by using the rind and juice together.
Ingredients (for a 2L Fermentation Jar)
- 250 ml watermelon juice
- 2 - watermelon rinds
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp roasted fennel seeds
- 1 tbsp sea salt (non-iodized)
- 1.5–2 L filtered water
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients
Juice fresh watermelon, watermelon rinds and all the spices. -
Add to the Jar
Pour the watermelon juice into a clean 2L fermentation jar. -
Add Spice Mix and Water
Add the Gutbasket Ferment Spice Mix and fill the jar with filtered water (1.5–2 L). Stir gently to mix. Leave about 2 inches of headspace at the top of the jar to allow room for gases to build during fermentation. -
Seal with an Airlock
Close the jar with an airlock lid to keep the environment clean and anaerobic. Fill the airlock halfway with clean water so gases can escape safely without letting air or contaminants in. -
Ferment Naturally
Leave the jar at room temperature (22–30°C) for 2–3 days. The mixture will develop a mild fizz and tangy aroma. -
Strain and Chill
Once fermented to your taste, strain the liquid into a clean bottle or jug. Discard the solids. -
Serve Cold
Refrigerate and serve chilled for a refreshing, gut-friendly summer drink.
Tips & Notes
- Fermentation Time: 2–3 days for mild tang; taste daily for preference.
- Headspace: Always leave 2 inches at the top to prevent overflow.
- Airlock Lid: Keeps your ferment safe and consistent.
- Color Tip: Add beetroot for a rich pink hue.
- Storage: Refrigerate and consume within 5–7 days for best flavor.
Final Thoughts
Watermelon Rind Sherbet is a vibrant, zero-waste probiotic drink that keeps you hydrated and your gut happy. Refreshing, tangy, and slightly fizzy — it’s a summer essential for both your health and taste buds.
