Watermelon Jalapeño Syrup

FOR TRADITIONAL BARBECUE, CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD, & GRILLED DISHES

What a scrumptious and slightly unexpected combination of sweet summer heat. Slather it on racks of spare ribs or baby backs, a tenderloin or two, or some chops. It’s uncomplicated to make your own watermelon juice if you don’t have an easy source for it. Simply puree chunks of the melon in your blender.

Watermelon Jalapeño Syrup is a delightful and unique sauce that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the kick of jalapeños. This vibrant and refreshing syrup is versatile and can be used to add a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes, especially when paired with pork.

To make this syrup, fresh watermelon juice is mixed with water, sugar, chopped jalapeños, minced garlic, and a hint of lime juice. The mixture is then simmered on the stove until the sugar dissolves, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The result is a balanced and flavorful syrup that strikes the perfect harmony between sweet and spicy.

This syrup is an excellent accompaniment to grilled or smoked pork, providing a tangy and mildly spicy glaze that complements the meat’s natural flavors. It can be brushed onto pork cuts during the cooking process or served warm on the side as a dipping sauce.

The versatility of Watermelon Jalapeño Syrup extends beyond pork, as it can be used to enhance various dishes and beverages. Drizzle it over grilled chicken, shrimp, or fish for a delightful twist. Mix it into cocktails or mocktails to create refreshing and spicy beverages. Additionally, this syrup can be used to liven up salads, salsas, and other dishes that could benefit from a touch of sweetness and heat.

The syrup’s vibrant color and delightful taste make it a hit at summer gatherings, barbecues, and picnics. It adds a unique and memorable flavor profile to your dishes, impressing your guests with its unexpected combination of watermelon and jalapeño. Whether used as a glaze, sauce, or condiment, Watermelon Jalapeño Syrup is a must-try addition to your culinary repertoire.

MAKES: ABOUT 1½ CUPS

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup fresh watermelon juice
• ½ cup water
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 or 3 fresh jalapeños, seeded and chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Juice of 1 medium lime

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the watermelon juice, water, sugar, chopped jalapeños, and minced garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
3. Remove the syrup from the heat and stir in the freshly squeezed lime juice.
4. Serve the watermelon-jalapeño sauce warm on or alongside pork at the table.
5. The sauce can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Before using it again, remember to reheat it.

VARIATIONS:

• Watermelon Jalapeño BBQ Sauce: Mix the syrup with your favorite BBQ sauce to add a touch of sweetness and heat to your grilled meats.
• Watermelon Jalapeño Marinade: Use the syrup as a marinade for pork, chicken, or shrimp. Let the meat soak in the syrup mixture for a few hours before grilling or baking for a burst of flavor.
• Watermelon Jalapeño Glaze: Reduce the syrup on low heat until it thickens slightly and becomes a glaze consistency. Brush the glaze on grilled pork chops or ribs during the last few minutes of cooking for a shiny and flavorful finish.
• Watermelon Jalapeño Vinaigrette: Combine the syrup with olive oil, lime juice, and a touch of vinegar to create a unique and tangy vinaigrette for salads, especially ones with grilled chicken or shrimp.
• Watermelon Jalapeño Dipping Sauce: Serve the syrup as a dipping sauce for grilled skewers, such as shrimp or chicken, or as a drizzle over grilled vegetables.
• Watermelon Jalapeño Margarita: Mix the syrup with tequila, lime juice, and ice to create a refreshing and spicy watermelon jalapeño margarita.
• Watermelon Jalapeño Salsa: Combine the syrup with diced watermelon, jalapeños, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice to make a delightful watermelon salsa that pairs well with grilled pork or fish.
• Watermelon Jalapeño Glazed Wings: Toss grilled chicken wings in the syrup glaze for a sticky and flavorful twist on classic wings.