Watermelon Pearls

Juicy and refreshing, watermelon pearls are a summer favorite — ideal for salads, cocktails, and chilled desserts.

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup (180mL) fresh watermelon juice (strained)
  • ¼ cup (60mL) cold water
  • 1 tbsp (15mL) lemon or lime juice
  • ½ tsp (2g) sodium alginate
  • 1 tsp (4.5g) calcium chloride
  • 2 cups (500mL) ice-cold water (for bath)

Instructions

  1. Juice & Mix
    • Blend watermelon and strain through cheesecloth. Mix with citrus juice and water.
  2. Add Alginate
    • Sprinkle sodium alginate while blending on low speed.
  3. Rest
    • Let rest for 30–45 minutes to remove foam.
  4. Strain
    • Filter through fine sieve into The Spherificator®.
  5. Prepare Bath
    • Mix calcium chloride with cold water.
  6. Form Pearls
    • Drip into bath. Cure for 45–60 seconds.
  7. Finish
    • Rinse well. Chill before serving.

Expert Tips

Flavor Boost
  • Minty: Add fresh mint leaves to the blend.
  • Spicy: Mix in a dash of chili or Tajín.
Color Enhancement
  • Redder hue: Use ripe watermelon or add beet juice.
  • Clear pearls: Strain thoroughly.
Troubleshooting
  • If bland: Add lemon juice or salt to sharpen flavor.
  • If mushy: Cure slightly longer and refrigerate.
Serving Ideas
  • Salads: Pair with feta and mint.
  • Drinks: Float in lemonade or sangria.
0