In Praise of Exotic Fruit: Refreshing Yellow Watermelon

Just when you thought the summertime fun could not possibly get any better, you discover there is such a thing as a yellow watermelon.

I know Medium is a global community. So perhaps for many of you, exotic fruits very likely grow in your front or backyard. Maybe you are among the ones who can say: “Oh please! We’ve been enjoying yellow watermelons since we were babies and got our first teeth!” 😊

But just in case you are like me and yellow watermelon is a new experience, I am going to share what I have learned about this wonderful exotic fruit and of course, some recipes.

• Are Yellow Watermelons Natural: Why Watermelon Is Yellow Inside?

Are yellow watermelons the result of an agricultural experiment or do they grow naturally?

The answer is: Yes, but … “The flesh of watermelons turning yellow is a natural mutation. … There are many naturally occurring hues of melons.” You can grow them the same as red watermelons. However, many gardeners or growers have experimented to come up with different varieties of yellow watermelons and give them names like: Yellow Doll, Buttercup Yellow Melon, Yellow Crimson, etc.

• What’s The Difference Between Red And Yellow Watermelon?

The difference is … based on the evidence … red watermelons came first! 😋 Archaeologists have found their seeds dating back 5,000 years. Whereas “yellow watermelons are slightly less ancient and have been around for about 4,000 years. They probably originated in Africa, and are sometimes known as ‘desert kings’ due to their ability to grow in the driest of climates.” Other differences? Red watermelons have lycopene and the yellow have beta-carotene. Both have high levels of vitamins A and C. Some people say the taste of the yellow fruit is sweeter. But everybody has different taste buds. You taste, you decide.

Besides … there are different ways to sweeten your watermelon no matter which color. I’ve always used a little salt. But there are various ways. Check out this video. How to Sweeten Your Watermelon

More Related Links:

• History of Watermelon — Origin of Different Types of Watermelons — Vegetable Facts
• What Is Yellow Watermelon? — Farm Flavor (Content includes great recipes)

How To Pick The Perfect Watermelon — Spoon University (5 simple steps)

Yellow Watermelon & Mint Pops recipe | Epicurious.com (I leave out the mint. It’s just me.)

Here’s the Difference Between Pink, Orange, and Yellow Watermelon | MyRecipes (WHAT?? There’s an orange watermelon too?? 🤣)

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Thanks for reading.