When we think of watermelon, we usually think of the sweet summertime treat, but now there’s a new trend. Transforming juicy watermelon slices into shockingly chewy and savory steaks is the latest thing. Cooking watermelon transforms its distinct granular texture into a slightly chewier texture, almost like raw tuna. The taste becomes less sweet and more savory/smoky. You can bake, roast, grill, or pan-fry watermelon to turn the sweet treat into a mouth-watering steak. While watermelon steak can be a delicious and unique dish, it’s important to note that it’s not a nutritional substitute for traditional steak because it lacks the protein that meat provides. However, it does offer health benefits, including hydration, essential vitamins, and beneficial plant compounds. So, if you’re ready to give watermelon steak a try, here’s a recipe that will have you wondering why you didn’t try it sooner.
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- • ½ large seedless watermelon
- • 2 tbsp olive oil
- • ½ tsp liquid smoke
- • 2 cloves garlic, minced
- • ¼ tsp each salt and pepper
- • Garnish: crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh mint, parsley, etc.
Directions:
- • Cut watermelon in half lengthwise and then cut into 1½-inch wide slices.
- • Pat each steak dry with paper towels. If you have time, place them in the refrigerator uncovered for 1-2 hours to dry out excess moisture.
- • Whisk together olive oil, liquid smoke, garlic, and salt and pepper and brush liberally on both sides of the watermelon steaks.
- • Lightly grease a large sauté pan over low-medium heat and cook steaks for about 5 minutes on each side.
- • Increase heat to medium-high and continue cooking steaks on each side for 1 minute or until lightly browned.
Note:
To cook watermelon steaks on the grill, cook on the stove as described above, but don't turn up the heat and brown them on the stove. Instead, move partially cooked watermelon steaks to a well-oiled grill and cook on high for a minute or two until char lines develop.
