Watermelon in Rose Lime Syrup is a very refreshing and cooling summer Watermelon Aqua Fresca drink or dessert. My husband likes to add some gin to his drink. For best quality flavor, the watermelon mixture is best consumed the day it is made, but 24 hours or so in the refrigerator will not do it too much damage. By the way, Aqua Fresca is Spanish for “fresh water.”
Rose Water is distilled from water and roses. It is used heavily in South Asian, West Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisine (especially in sweets). It is usually found in specialty stores (Asian or Indian grocery and spice stores), but some grocery stores now carry it. If you are unable to find culinary essence or rose water, substitute 1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lemon juice.
Learn about watermelons and the Egyptian-style of roasting watermelon seeds.
- 1 small seedless watermelon*
- Lime juice, fresh-squeezed to taste
- 1 to 2 tablespoons rose water
- Coarse salt or sea salt (optional)
- Ice cubes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
-
Make Simple Syrup (see recipe below).
-
Remove rind and any seeds from the watermelon.
-
Cut the watermelon into roughly 1/4 to 1/2-inch cubes and place in a large bowl. Add lime juice, rose water, and a pinch of salt. Add approximately 1 cup of ice cubes per pound of watermelon.
-
Set the bowl in the refrigerator for approximately 2 hours or until the ice cubed have mostly melted. When ready to serve. remove from refrigerator and add any additional lime juice and/or rose water as needed for your taste.
-
Serve immediately in glasses or bowls with a spoon on the side.
-
In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Boil for 5 minutes, without stirring; remove from heat and let cool before using. This syrup mixture will keep for several weeks in the refrigerator.
* To choose a watermelon, look for one that is firm, heavy for its size, free of bruises and cuts, and creamy yellow on the side that sat on the ground as it grew. Cut watermelon can be stored, covered, in refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Source: I adapted this wonderful refreshing dessert/drink from the blog called As Dear As Salt by Richa of New Jersey.