Watermelon is a refreshing and delicious fruit that is perfect for hot summer days. Its juicy and sweet taste make it a favorite among many people. However, sometimes it can be difficult to determine if a watermelon is perfectly ripe. Many people wonder if keeping watermelon in the refrigerator will help it ripen or if it will have the opposite effect. In this guide, we will explore whether watermelon will ripen in the refrigerator and provide some tips on how to choose and store a perfectly ripe watermelon.
Choosing the Perfectly Ripe Watermelon
Before we delve into the topic of ripening watermelon in the refrigerator, it’s important to know how to choose a ripe watermelon in the first place. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect watermelon:
Look for a yellow spot:
A ripe watermelon will have a creamy yellow or orange spot on its underside. This indicates that the watermelon has been resting on the ground and is ripe.
Check for a dull skin:
A shiny watermelon is usually underripe, so you should look for a dull skin. Gently run your fingers over the surface of the watermelon to feel if the skin is smooth and matte.
Tap it:
Give the watermelon a gentle tap with your palm. If you hear a deep and low-pitched sound, it indicates that the watermelon is ripe. If the sound is hollow or high-pitched, it may not be ripe yet.
Check the shape and weight:
A ripe watermelon will feel heavy for its size. Additionally, a symmetrical shape without any bumps or irregularities is a good sign of ripeness.
Will Watermelon Ripen in the Refrigerator?
The refrigerator is not the ideal place to ripen a watermelon. Unlike some fruits, such as bananas or avocados, watermelon does not continue to ripen after it has been picked. Once the watermelon has been harvested, it will maintain its current ripeness level.
However, if you have an underripe watermelon that needs a little more time to reach its peak ripeness, you can place it in the refrigerator to slow down the ripening process. The cold temperatures of the refrigerator will help maintain the watermelon’s current level of ripeness without it becoming overripe.
It’s important to note that refrigerating a ripe watermelon for an extended period will not improve its ripeness. The fruit will stay the same once refrigerated.
Storing Watermelon in the Refrigerator
If you have a perfectly ripe watermelon that you want to store for a few days, the refrigerator is an excellent option. Follow these steps to store your watermelon properly:
Wrap it:
First, wrap the watermelon in a plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to protect it from absorbing other smells from the fridge.
Cut it up:
If you’ve already cut up the watermelon and have leftover pieces, place them in an airtight container or cover them with plastic wrap before refrigerating. This will help retain their freshness.
Keep it cool:
Place the wrapped watermelon or container in the refrigerator, preferably in the crisper drawer where it is slightly more humid. This will help preserve its texture and taste.
Consume within a week:
To enjoy the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume refrigerated watermelon within a week of storing.
Tips for Ripening Watermelon Out of the Refrigerator
If you happen to bring home an underripe watermelon and want to speed up the ripening process, here are a few tricks you can try:
Keep it at room temperature:
Store the watermelon at room temperature away from direct sunlight. This will allow it to ripen naturally over time.
Wrap it in a brown paper bag:
Place the watermelon in a brown paper bag and store it at room temperature. The bag will help trap the natural ethylene gas produced by the fruit, which speeds up the ripening process.
Add a ripe fruit:
If you need to ripen a watermelon quickly, you can place it in a paper bag with a ripe apple or banana. These fruits release ethylene gas, which further accelerates the ripening process.
Use a warm environment:
If you’re in a hurry, you can create a warm environment for the watermelon by placing it on a sunny windowsill or near a gentle heat source. Be careful not to expose it to excessive heat, which can cause it to spoil.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while refrigerating a watermelon will not help it ripen, it can slow down the ripening process of an underripe watermelon. It is important to choose a ripe watermelon by checking for a yellow spot, a dull skin, tapping it for a low-pitched sound, and ensuring it has a symmetrical shape. If you have a ripe watermelon, you can store it in the refrigerator for a few days, but it will not become more ripe. On the other hand, if you need to ripen an underripe watermelon, it’s best to keep it at room temperature and utilize methods like using a brown paper bag or adding a ripe fruit. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the perfect watermelon at its peak ripeness.