Watermelons are undoubtedly one of the most refreshing fruits, especially during the scorching summer months. But cutting them can be quite a messy task, leaving you with sticky hands and a sticky countertop. Well, fret not! We have a step-by-step guide to help you cut watermelon into neat and convenient sticks. So, grab a watermelon and let’s dive in!
Step 1: Gather your tools
To begin with, make sure you have the right tools on hand. You will need a sharp knife, a cutting board, a spoon or an ice cream scoop, and a serving dish. It is important to have a sharp knife to ensure smooth and clean cuts.
Step 2: Wash the watermelon
Before you start cutting, give the watermelon a good wash under running water. This step is crucial to eliminate any dirt or bacteria present on the outer rind, ensuring that your fruit is clean and safe to consume.
Step 3: Cut off the ends
Using your sharp knife, carefully slice off both ends of the watermelon. This will create a stable base for further cutting and prevent it from rolling around on the cutting board.
Step 4: Stand it up
Now, stand the watermelon upright on one of its flat ends. This will make it easier to cut it into slices and sticks.
Step 5: Slice it down the middle
Starting from the top, make a downward cut with your knife to slice the watermelon in half. Apply steady pressure to ensure a clean cut all the way through. You will now have two halves of the watermelon.
Step 6: Remove the rind
Place one of the watermelon halves flat side down on the cutting board. With your knife in hand, start from the top and carefully slice along the curve, following the shape of the fruit, to remove the rind. Repeat this step for the other half. You should now have two naked halves of watermelon.
Step 7: Cut into strips
Take one of the watermelon halves and slice it again lengthwise into 1-inch thick slices. Place each slice flat on the cutting board and proceed to cut them into sticks or fingers, approximately 1-inch wide. Repeat this process for the remaining watermelon half as well.
Step 8: Remove the seeds
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, remove any black seeds you come across. If your watermelon is seedless, lucky you! This step will be a breeze for you.
Step 9: Arrange and serve
Once you have cut all the watermelon into sticks, neatly arrange them on a serving dish. You can opt for a rectangular platter or a bowl – the choice is yours. For an extra touch, you can also garnish your watermelon sticks with a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a squeeze of lime juice.
And there you have it! Your refreshing watermelon sticks are ready to be enjoyed. This cutting technique is not only convenient for serving, but it also makes snacking on watermelon a less messy experience. So, the next time you have a watermelon in hand, follow this step-by-step guide and wow your family and friends with your perfectly cut watermelon sticks.