Deutsch: Wassermelone / Indian: Thanimathan
Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.), family Cucurbitaceae) is a vine-like (scrambler and trailer) flowering plant originally from southern Africa. Its fruit, which is also called watermelon, is a special kind referred to by botanists as a pepo, a berry which has a thick rind (exocarp) and fleshy center (mesocarp and endocarp). Pepos are derived from an inferior ovary, and are characteristic of the Cucurbitaceae. The watermelon fruit, loosely considered a type of melon - although not in the genus Cucumis - has a smooth exterior rind (usually green with dark green stripes or yellow spots) and a juicy, sweet interior flesh (usually deep red to pink, but sometimes orange, yellow, or white).
In the food context, watermelon is a large, juicy fruit with a sweet, refreshing taste that is native to Africa but is now widely cultivated in many parts of the world. It is often enjoyed on its own as a summertime snack, but can also be used in a variety of dishes and beverages.
Here are some examples of dishes and beverages that use watermelon as a primary ingredient:
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Watermelon Salad: A refreshing salad made with cubed watermelon, feta cheese, mint leaves, and a lime vinaigrette.
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Watermelon Smoothie: A sweet and creamy beverage made with blended watermelon, yogurt, and honey.
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Grilled Watermelon: A unique and flavorful dish where watermelon slices are lightly grilled and served with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
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Watermelon Gazpacho: A chilled soup made with watermelon, cucumber, tomatoes, and spices that is perfect for hot summer days.
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Watermelon Agua Fresca: A refreshing Mexican beverage made with blended watermelon, lime juice, and sugar.
Similar fruits to watermelon include:
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Cantaloupe: A sweet and juicy melon that is often used in fruit salads, smoothies, and desserts.
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Honeydew Melon: A juicy and mildly sweet melon that is often used in salads, smoothies, and cocktails.
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Pineapple: A tropical fruit with a sweet and tangy taste that is often used in smoothies, salsas, and desserts.
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Mango: A juicy tropical fruit with a sweet and tangy taste that is often used in smoothies, salsas, and curries.
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Papaya: A tropical fruit with a sweet and musky taste that is often used in salads, smoothies, and desserts.