What’s better than a cool slice of watermelon on a hot, muggy day? Full of water, light and naturally sweet, this star fruit of sunny days ticks all the boxes for a refreshing dessert. You still have to know how to choose it. Because between a floury, bland watermelon or on the contrary perfectly juicy and fragrant, the difference is often played out… before even going to the checkout.
So how do you spot a good watermelon at first glance? To answer this question, the magazine All Recipes interviewed several specialist farmers. Their advice is simple, but extremely effective.
The number one detail to look at: the “field stain”
This is the criterion that comes up among all the producers interviewed. The famous “field spot” corresponds to the area on which the watermelon rested on the ground during its ripening.
To spot it, simply lift the fruit and observe its base.
A good watermelon should have a large creamy yellow spot, sometimes slightly straw colored. This is a sign that it has had time to ripen naturally in the sun.
On the other hand, a very white spot — or the total absence of a spot — often indicates a fruit picked too early, whose flesh may be less sweet and less flavorful.
A good watermelon must be heavy
Another valuable clue: weight. A ripe watermelon generally feels heavy for its size.
This is easily explained: this fruit is made up of more than 90% water. The more water it is saturated with, the juicier and more pleasant it will be to eat. For equal size, it is therefore better to choose the heaviest fruit.
The famous “knock knock” test
You’ve probably seen someone tapping a watermelon at the market. This gesture is not a myth.
According to the farmers interviewed, a ripe watermelon makes a deep, hollow sound when gently tapped with your fingers. A noise that is too metallic or too high-pitched can indicate that the fruit is still immature.
Even if this test requires a little practice, it remains a good complement to the other visual clues.
The exterior appearance also matters
A beautiful watermelon is not necessarily visually perfect. A few small superficial scratches are normal. On the other hand, certain signs should alert:
- Bumps or soft areas;
- Cuts or bruises;
- An irregular shape;
- A flattened face, sometimes linked to poor storage or shocks during transport.
Producers also recommend favoring rather matte skin. A very shiny peel may indicate a fruit that is still too young.
Finally, if the stem is still present, it should be brownish and dry: this is generally a sign that the watermelon has reached maturity.
Be careful with watermelons stored in direct sunlight
If you choose a fruit on the stalls of a market, also know this: it is better to avoid fruits that have been exposed to high heat or direct sunlight for a long time.
High temperatures can accelerate their degradation and alter their taste. An overheated watermelon also retains its freshness less well after purchase.
Can you ripen a watermelon at home?
Finally, we do not choose a greener watermelon to ripen it. Unlike some fruits like bananas or avocados, watermelon does not continue to ripen after being picked.
We speak of a “non-climacteric” fruit: once separated from its stem, it no longer gains sugar or maturity. Hence the importance of choosing it carefully from the start.
A refreshing fruit… and hydrating
In addition to being thirst-quenching, watermelon remains nutritionally interesting. Low in calories and very rich in water, it contributes to hydration during hot periods. It also provides antioxidants, notably lycopene, a pigment naturally present in its red flesh. On the other hand, you should not overdo it, as watermelon can increase your blood sugar levels.
But in this period of the first strong heat, there is enough to make it a pleasant ally… provided you find the right one.