posted by Connie 09-11-102 7:19 AM
Microwave Watermelon Rind Pickles
1/2 cup pickling salt
2 quarts water
10 to 12 cups pared watermelon rind cubes (1 inch)*
2 cups white vinegar
6 cups sugar
1 tablespoon whole cloves
2 or 3 sticks cinnamon
Mix salt and water in a 3 quart glass casserole; add watermelon rind. Cover and let soak 2 hours. Drain; rinse with cold water. Return rind to casserole.
Cover rind with fresh water. Cook uncovered in micro 30 minutes at high, or until tender; stir twice. Drain; return rind to casserole and set aside.
Combine vinegar and sugar in a 2 quart measuring pitcher. Tie spices in a cheesecloth bag. Add to vinegar and sugar. Cook uncovered in micro 13 to 15 minutes, or until sugar is dissolved and mixture is boiling; stir 3 times. Remove spice bag.
Pour syrup over rind. Cook uncovered in micro 3 minutes at high.
Pack pickles into hot sterilized jars; cover. Cool. Store in refrigerator. Makes 5 pints.
*Leave a thin line of pink with the watermelon rind.