Sicilian Watermelon Pudding (Gelo di Melone)

Ingredients

• 4 cup fresh watermelon juice (strained from about 1 small watermelon)
• 0.33 cup arrowroot starch (used as a thickener; can substitute with cornstarch if not grain-free)
• 2 tbsp honey (adjust based on the sweetness of the watermelon)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp pistachios (crushed, for garnish)
• 1 tbsp dark chocolate chips (mini chips preferred, to resemble watermelon seeds)

Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the watermelon juice by blending fresh watermelon chunks and straining the pulp through a fine-mesh sieve until you have 4 cups of liquid.

2. 2

   In a medium saucepan, whisk together the watermelon juice and arrowroot starch until the starch is completely dissolved and no lumps remain.

3. 3

   Add the honey to the saucepan and place it over medium heat.

4. 4

   Cook the mixture, whisking constantly, until it begins to thicken and reaches a low boil, about 5-8 minutes.

5. 5

   Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

6. 6

   Pour the mixture into individual serving bowls or ramekins.

7. 7

   Allow the pudding to cool to room temperature, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill and set completely for at least 2 hours.

8. 8

   Before serving, garnish with crushed pistachios and dark chocolate chips.

Notes

This recipe is a healthy take on the traditional Sicilian 'Gelo di Melone'. For a more traditional flavor, you can add a drop of jasmine essence or cinnamon. Ensure the watermelon is very ripe for the best natural sweetness.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• pudding
• watermelon
• dairy-free
• refined sugar-free
• gluten-free
• summer
• no-bake