- Prepare the watermelon: Cut the watermelon into small chunks and remove any seeds. Measure about 8 cups of watermelon.
- Blend: Place the watermelon in a blender and blend until completely smooth.
- Strain: Pour the blended watermelon through a fine-mesh strainer into a large saucepan, pressing gently to extract as much juice as possible.
- Combine: Add the fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water to the watermelon juice. Stir well.
- Heat: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir frequently until the sugar completely dissolves. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, but avoid a vigorous boil.
- Adjust the flavor: Taste the concentrate. If the lemon flavor is too strong, blend or juice an additional 1–2 cups of watermelon and stir it into the mixture.
- Simmer: Continue heating gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Fill the jars: Carefully ladle the hot concentrate into clean, hot jars, leaving appropriate headspace. Wipe the rims and apply the lids according to the jar manufacturer’s instructions.
- For canning: If you intend to store the concentrate at room temperature, use a tested, current canning recipe and processing time appropriate for your jar size and altitude rather than relying on this recipe alone.
- Cool and store: For refrigerator storage, allow the jars to cool before refrigerating.
To Make Watermelon Lemonade
Mix 1 part watermelon lemonade concentrate with 2–3 parts cold water, depending on how strong you like it. Add plenty of ice and fresh watermelon or lemon slices.
Tip: For an extra refreshing version, replace some of the water with sparkling water just before serving. 🍉🍋🥤
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