Watermelon Rind Halwa

Most of us discard the white rind of watermelon after cutting out the juicy pulp. This white rind is supposed to contain some vitamins and an amino acid that help dilate the blood vessels. It is also good for the skin and immunity.

To use the white rind, once you cut the red juicy pulp out, carefully remove the hard green peel using a sharp knife. Collect all the white rind and then grate.

Ingredients:

Watermelon Rind (the white part only), grated – 10 cups
Sugar – 2 cups
Salt – a pinch
Cardamom Powder – 1 tsp
Ghee – 4 tbsps (you can add more if you want)
Yellow Food Color – a pinch (optional)
Saffron Strands – 8 soaked in 2 tbps hot milk
Cashew Nuts – 10
Raisins – 15

Method:

1. Take the grated white watermelon rind in a large wok or a pan. Use the water collected while grating too.
2. Add a pinch of salt and yellow food color(if using).
3. Let it cook on high flame. Keep stirring occasionally.
   
4. Meanwhile, in a small pan, heat 1 tbsp ghee, add cashew nuts and raisins. Roast for a few seconds.
5. Continue to cook until it starts coming together. This could take 30 to 40 minutes.
6. Add sugar, saffron milk, cardamom powder and 3 tbsps ghee.
7. Stir continuously until it comes together.
8. Add the roasted cashew nuts and raisins to the cooked halwa. Mix well  for 2-3 minutes.
9. Turn off the heat.
10. Serve hot.