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Why Watermelon is a Summer Favorite

During the hot summer months, watermelon is a popular choice due to its refreshing taste and high water content. While many enjoy the fruit, they often discard the peels. This summer, consider saving those peels to create a delightful halwa that will impress everyone at home.

Health Benefits of Watermelon Peels

Watermelon peels are packed with nutrients. According to health experts, they contain a significant amount of fiber, which aids in digestion and improves bowel movements. Additionally, they are believed to help lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Let's explore the recipe for watermelon peel halwa shared by Chef Dinesh.

Ingredients for the Halwa

To prepare this dish, you will need: watermelon peel, 2 cups of water, 1.5 cups of sugar, a pinch of salt, a pinch of green cardamom powder, a pinch of saffron, 45 tablespoons of ghee, 24 cashews, and 3 drops of lemon juice. Now, let's dive into the preparation steps.

How to Make Watermelon Peel Halwa

1. Start by thoroughly washing the watermelon peels and removing the outer green layer.

2. Grate the remaining white part of the peel and squeeze out excess water, aiming for about 2 cups.

3. In a heavy-bottomed pot, bring water to a boil and add the grated watermelon peel.

4. Crush the cashews and roast them in ghee until golden brown. You can also add other nuts like almonds or walnuts if desired.

5. Cook the peels until they become soft and translucent.

6. Once cooked, add sugar and a pinch of salt, stirring well.

7. Continue cooking on medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and resembles syrup.

8. Gradually add ghee, allowing it to absorb into the mixture for a glossy finish.

9. Mix in cardamom powder and saffron to enhance the flavor.

10. Add a few drops of lemon juice to prevent the sugar syrup from crystallizing.

11. For the final touch, stir in a pinch of green cardamom.

12. Cook until the halwa releases a pleasant aroma and separates from the sides of the pot.

13. Garnish with fried cashews and serve hot or allow it to cool before serving.

Other Delicious Uses for Watermelon Peels

Watermelon peels are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them beneficial for your skin. Besides halwa, you can also make fruit preserves, spicy vegetable dishes, or even pickles using watermelon peels.