Jul. 3--What do you know about Watermelons?
Historians say the watermelon originated in Africa's Kalahari Desert.
Watermelons are 92 percent water.
A watermelon is really a vegetable -- a member of the cucumber family and related to the gourd.
Watermelon is naturally high in Vitamins A, B6, C and is a great source of potassium. A two-cup serving contains 80 calories with zero calories from fat. Watermelon is also the "lycopene leader" among all other fresh fruits and vegetables. Lycopene gives the flesh its red color. A single watermelon contains over 13 miligrams of lycopene for every one and a half cups.
Bamberg, Barnwell, Colleton, Allendale, Hampton, and Aiken counties are the leading watermelon production counties in the low country. Chesterfield County leads production in the upstate.
The largest watermelon on record (262 pounds) was grown by Bill Carson of Arrington, Tenn. in 1990.
When choosing a watermelon in a grocery store, look for a firm, symmetrical watermelon free from cuts, bruises or dents. Lift it up; it should be heavy for its size. The watermelon should also have a creamy, yellow spot on its underside where it lay on the ground ripening.
After slicing, keep watermelon refrigerated until consumed -- up to 3 to 4 days.
The Guinness Book World Record distance for spitting a watermelon seed stands at 68 feet, nine and one-eighth inches set by Luling, Texas local Lee Wheells in 1989. Luling, Texas is home to the annual Watermelon Thump festival.
Recipe for Watermelon Cooler by Paula Deen
1 1/2 pounds or 4 cups of sliced seedless watermelon, rind removed
1 cup lemon sorbet
1 lemon, zested
1 1/2 cups cold water
Watermelon wedges and mint for garnish
Watermelon types
All sweet -- oblong with light green stripes on dark green background, averages 21 to 26 pounds
Royal Sweet -- oblong and blocky with medium dark green stripes on light green background, averages 21 to 28 pounds
Jubilee/Jubilation -- elongated with dark green stripes on light green background, averages 22 to 30 pounds
Crimson Sweet -- small, broken dark green stripes on light green background, averages 18 to 25 pounds
Ice Box -- round to slightly oval with light or dark green stripes, averages five to 12 pounds
Seedless -- round or oblong with either red, orange or yellow flesh, averages 10 to 17 pounds
In food processor, blend watermelon, sorbet and lemon zest until very smooth. Stir in cold water; cover and refrigerate until very cold. Serve over ice and garnish with watermelon wedges and mint.
* Sources: The National Watermelon Promotion Board and the South Carolina Watermelon Board
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