Watermelon Juice Recipe – Refreshing Summer Drink with Mint & Black Salt

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Watermelon Juice Recipe – Refreshing Summer Drink with Mint & Black Salt

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, the summer heat just begs for a tall, cool glass of something refreshing. And honestly, nothing beats a vibrant, naturally sweet watermelon juice. I remember making this for the first time during a particularly scorching Delhi summer – it was an instant hit, and it’s been a family favourite ever since! It’s super simple to make, and the little touch of black salt just elevates everything. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This watermelon juice isn’t just about beating the heat; it’s about pure, summery bliss in a glass. It’s incredibly hydrating, naturally sweet (so you can skip refined sugar!), and bursting with flavour. Plus, it comes together in under 20 minutes. Seriously, what’s not to love? It’s the perfect drink for a hot afternoon, a picnic, or just when you need a little pick-me-up.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• 1 medium bowl watermelon cubes (about 4-5 cups)
• 2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
• 4-5 mint leaves
• 0.25 tsp black salt (kala namak)
• 0.5 lemon (about 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• 5-6 ice cubes

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec. These little things can make a big difference!

Watermelon Selection & Ripeness

Choosing the right watermelon is key. You want one that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow spot where it rested on the ground. A dull thud when you tap it is a good sign too! Don’t worry too much about perfect symmetry – sometimes the wonkiest watermelons are the sweetest.

Black Salt: The Unique Flavor Component

Don’t skip the black salt! It adds a subtle, savoury, almost eggy flavour that really complements the sweetness of the watermelon. It’s a staple in Indian cuisine and adds a unique depth you won’t get with regular salt. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online.

Mint Varieties for Optimal Freshness

I prefer spearmint for this recipe, as it has a milder, sweeter flavour. But peppermint works in a pinch if that’s what you have on hand. Just use a little less, as it can be quite strong. Fresh mint is essential though – dried just won’t cut it.

Sugar Alternatives

If you’re watching your sugar intake, feel free to experiment! Honey or maple syrup are great alternatives. Start with a tablespoon and adjust to your liking. You might even find you don’t need any sweetener at all, depending on how sweet your watermelon is.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some juice!

1. First, cut your watermelon into halves and then into smaller, manageable pieces. Scoop out the pink, juicy flesh and cube it. A large bowlful is perfect!
2. Now, add the watermelon cubes, sugar, and those lovely mint leaves to your blender.
3. Blend everything until it’s completely smooth. Don’t be afraid to blend for a little longer to get rid of any chunks.
4. Time to strain! Pour the blended mixture through a sieve to remove any seeds and pulp. This will give you a beautifully smooth juice.
5. Finally, mix in the black salt and lemon juice. Give it a good stir.
6. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Want to take your watermelon juice to the next level? Here are a few of my go-to tricks:

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

If your juice is too thick, add a splash of water. If it’s too thin, add a few more watermelon cubes and blend again.

Keeping the Juice Cold Without Dilution

Freeze some watermelon cubes beforehand and use those instead of ice. This will keep your juice cold without watering it down.

Maximizing Watermelon Flavor

Don’t discard the rind completely! You can actually make a delicious watermelon rind chutney. It’s a great way to reduce waste and add a unique flavour to your meals.

Variations

This recipe is a great base for experimentation!

Vegan Watermelon Juice

This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check your sugar source if you’re being super strict.

Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Ginger or Chili)

My friend, Priya, loves to add a tiny sliver of ginger or a pinch of chili powder for a little kick. It’s surprisingly delicious!

Festival Adaptations (Summer Solstice, Holi)

During Holi, we sometimes add a splash of rose water to the juice for a floral aroma. It feels very festive!

Watermelon Juice Popsicles

Pour the juice into popsicle molds and freeze for a refreshing summer treat. My kids absolutely adore these!

Serving Suggestions

This watermelon juice is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• Light snacks like fruit salad or biscuits.
• Spicy Indian dishes to cool the palate.
• A relaxing afternoon in the sun.

Storage Instructions

Watermelon juice is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It may separate, so give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

How do I know if my watermelon is ripe for juicing?

Look for a creamy yellow spot, a dull thud when tapped, and a heavy weight for its size.

Can I use frozen watermelon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen watermelon will make your juice extra cold and thick.

What if I don’t have black salt? What can I substitute?

Regular salt will work in a pinch, but it won’t have the same unique flavour. You could also try a pinch of Himalayan pink salt.

How can I make this juice less sweet?

Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar alternative. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice to balance the sweetness.

Can I add other fruits to this watermelon juice?

Definitely! Pineapple, strawberries, and mint are all great additions.

Is it possible to make a larger batch of this juice ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best consumed within 24 hours for optimal flavour and freshness.