How to Pick a Perfectly Ripe Watermelon
Check for a Yellow Spot on the Bottom
One of the easiest ways to tell if a watermelon is ripe is by looking at the spot where it sat on the ground. This spot is usually called the “belly” or “ground spot.”
A ripe watermelon will have a creamy yellow spot on the bottom where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun. If the spot is white or green, the watermelon may not be fully ripe yet.
The yellow spot should also be uniform in color, without any green or white streaks. A watermelon with an uneven or discolored spot may not be as sweet or juicy as a fully ripe one.
When you’re at the grocery store or farmer’s market, be sure to turn the watermelon over and check for the yellow spot before making your selection. This simple trick can help you choose a perfectly ripe watermelon every time.
Tap and Listen for a Hollow Sound
Another way to tell if a watermelon is ripe is by tapping it and listening for a hollow sound. A ripe watermelon will have a deep, hollow sound when you tap it, while an unripe one will sound dull.
To do the tap test, simply hold the watermelon up to your ear and tap it with your other hand. Be sure to tap all around the watermelon, including the ends.
If the watermelon sounds hollow, it’s a good indication that it’s ripe and ready to eat. If it sounds dull or thud-like, it may need a few more days to ripen.
Keep in mind that the tap test is not foolproof and may not work for all watermelons. It’s best to use it in combination with other methods for determining ripeness, such as checking the belly spot and inspecting the skin.
Inspect the Skin for Uniformity and Texture
The skin of a watermelon can also give you clues about its ripeness. When inspecting the skin, look for uniformity in color and texture.
A ripe watermelon will have a deep green color that is uniform all around, with no soft spots or discoloration. The skin should also have a slightly waxy feel to it.
On the other hand, an unripe watermelon may have a lighter green color, with white or pale green streaks on the skin. The skin may also be dull and lack the waxy feel of a ripe watermelon.
When selecting a watermelon, be sure to give it a good once-over and check for any signs of uneven coloring or texture. This can help you choose a watermelon that is ripe and ready to eat.
Look for a Uniform Shape and Size
Watermelons come in all shapes and sizes, but a ripe watermelon should have a uniform shape and size. This means that it should be symmetrical and free from any deformities or lumps.
A ripe watermelon should also feel heavy for its size. This is because a watermelon that is full of water will be heavier than one that is not yet ripe.
When selecting a watermelon, take a look at its overall shape and size. Avoid watermelons that are misshapen or have lumps, as they may not be fully ripe. Instead, choose a watermelon that is symmetrical and feels heavy for its size.
Give it a Thump Test to Gauge Ripeness
In addition to the tap test, you can also use the thump test to determine if a watermelon is ripe. This involves thumping the watermelon with your fingers and listening to the sound it makes.
To do the thump test, place the watermelon on a flat surface and give it a firm thump with your fingers. A ripe watermelon should produce a deep, resonant sound, while an unripe one will produce a dull or flat sound.
It’s important to thump the watermelon in the right spot, which is typically on the side opposite the stem. Thump it a few times in different spots to get a sense of the sound.
While the thump test is not foolproof, it can be a helpful tool in determining if a watermelon is ripe. Be sure to use it in combination with other methods for determining ripeness, such as checking the belly spot and inspecting the skin.
