If you’ve ever ended up with a massive watermelon that’s way too big to finish, or it is simply too overripe to enjoy fresh..This Mojito Watermelon Jerky Recipe is a winner! Some watermelons can grow over 20–25kg, and while they’re delicious, they can quickly turn into a “how on earth do I use all this?” situation. And we do not want to waste any of that delicious harvest!
This dehydrated watermelon snack transforms fresh watermelon into a chewy, naturally sweet treat with a refreshing twist of mint and lime. It’s like a summer version of fruit leather…but lighter, brighter, and, not surprisingly, very addictive.
Perfect for:
- reducing food waste
- preserving excess watermelon
- healthy summer snacking
- using your dehydrator
And the best part? You can make it plain or go full mojito-style watermelon jerky with fresh mint and lime.
What is Watermelon Jerky?
Watermelon jerky (also called dehydrated watermelon) is just sliced watermelon that has been slowly dried until most of its moisture is removed. Because watermelon is naturally high in water content, it shrinks significantly during dehydration and develops a chewy texture. The result is a SUPER concentrated fruit snack with high natural sugars. The mint and lime in this recipe help to balance that sweetness.
Unlike fruit leather, watermelon jerky is usually sliced rather than blended, which gives it a firmer, more chewy texture (like jerky).
Tips for Best Results
- Slice evenly to prevent uneven drying
- Avoid overcrowding trays to allow airflow
- Start checking early as drying time can vary significantly
- Thinner slices produce a chewier, more consistent texture
- If experimenting, dry plain and flavoured versions side by side
Mojito Watermelon Jerky
Naturally, sweet watermelon treats 🍉
Ingredients
- 1/2 Watermelon
- 1 Lime
- 1/2 cup fresh Mint
Instructions
- Rinse and finely slice the mint.
- Add the juice and zest of one Lime to a bowl and mix through the mint.
- Remove the rind and any seeds from the watermelon and slice it into strips roughly 1cm thick. If the strips are too thin they will break apart and be hard to remove from the tray. Too thick and it will take a loooooong time to dehydrate, so I have found around 1cm is a happy medium.
- Lay your watermelon strips in a large shallow dish and pour over the lime and mint marinate. Gently turn over to coat. I like to do a mix of some marinated and some plain. Cover your dish and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavours to combine.
- Place your watermelon onto your dehydrator trays, ensuring you have a drip tray at the bottom to catch excess juices. I have found it is best to use fruit leather trays or parchment paper otherwise the jerky gets stuck to the metal grids. Dehydrate at 60 degrees Celsius until dry (This will take anywhere from 18-24 hours). To speed up the process, turn your watermelon strips over a few times during the process.
- They should not be sticky to touch. The thicker parts that aren't quite dry will be a darker red colour. You may need to remove the dried watermelon and let the thicker slices dehydrate a bit longer. This will take anywhere from 18-24 hours.
- Allow to cool and add to a clean, dry, airtight container.
Enjoy! 🍉
Notes
- Please note that the Watermelon reduces significantly in size once dehydrated and has concentrated, high levels of sugars. Enjoy 2-3 pieces per serve as a treat or natural confectionary.
- Try using cookie cutters to get fun-shaped jerky.
How to Store Your Watermelon Jerky
Allow the watermelon jerky to cool completely before storing. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It will generally keep for 1–2 weeks, depending on humidity levels. For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended.
Variations
- Add lime zest for stronger citrus flavour
- Increase mint for a more herbal profile
- Add a small amount of chilli flakes for a sweet-heat variation
- Try sea salt for a more balanced flavour profile
- Try with other types of melons!
Why Make Jerky When Fresh Watermelon is so Good
I often get asked this question and the answer is – sometimes we can have too much to eat fresh, or it is simply overripe, and no one really wants to eat it. Watermelon jerky is a simple example of how excess seasonal produce can be preserved rather than wasted. In a home garden or food forest system, this method helps extend the usability of high-yield crops like watermelon beyond their fresh-eating window.
Be sure to let me know if you make this!
Happy Gardening,
Holly 🌱
Easy Chocolate-Dipped Watermelon Pops – Healthy Summer Treat
These Chocolate Dipped Watermelon Pops are the ultimate summer treat. Made with…
How to Grow Watermelon – The Ultimate Garden-to-Plate Guide
How to Grow Watermelon Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is easy to grow in home…
