Nothing says summer like biting into a sweet, juicy slice of watermelon. But how do you make sure the watermelon you bring home from the grocery store isn’t a dud? The answer is in how you pick it! Let’s chat about some foolproof tips to help you select the best watermelon on the stand.
Look for the Field Spot
The field spot is the area on the watermelon that rested on the ground while it was growing. When selecting a watermelon, look for one with a creamy yellow or even slightly orange field spot. This indicates that the watermelon was allowed to ripen in the sun—essential for developing sweetness.
Check the Weight
A good watermelon should feel heavy for its size, regardless of whether it is large or small. This heaviness is a sign that the watermelon is full of water and thus juicy. Compare it with another of a similar size; the heavier one will generally be the better choice.
Tap for Sound
The sound test is a classic technique to determine the ripeness of a watermelon. Give the watermelon a good tap and listen to the sound it makes. A ripe watermelon will have a deep, hollow sound, indicating it’s full of juice and at peak ripeness.