Watermelon Rind Jam

(kurdistan) (iraq)

Cut rind into 1 / 3-inch strips.

Cover in cold water and bring to a quick boil.

Reduce heat , and let simmer slowly until transparent , about 30 minutes.

Drain , and reserve 1 1 / 2 cups of liquid.

In a heavy pot , completely dissolve sugar in reserved liquid.

Add honey and lemon peel , and bring to a boil , skimming as needed.

Add drained rind and seeds and boil gently over medium heat , for 15 minutes.

Remove from heat , cover , and set aside overnight.

Boil again over medium heat , until syrup thickens , about 15 minutes.

Test for doneness.

Add lemon juice and mastic or cardamom 5 minutes before jam is done.

Let jam cool completely then store in a sterilized jar.

watermelon rind, sugar, lemon peel, honey, melon seeds, lemon juice, whole cardamom pods