Watermelon

Watermelon though grown in all parts of the country, grows best in warmer temperatures. Watermelon which belongs to Citrullus family is a creeper plant that originated in Southern Africa. Its fruit has a rind which is smooth and comes in green, yellow, etc. It has juicy and sweet flesh. Besides being a good source of vitamin C, a watermelon contains 6% sugar and 92 water. 

History

Thought to have originated in the African deserts of Kalahari, where it is still found in abundance, the watermelon harvest was first recorded nearly 5000 years ago in Egypt. The reminiscent of which are still found in the hieroglyphics depicted on the walls of the ancient Egyptian buildings. To nourish the kings of Egypt in their afterlife, watermelons were placed in the kings’ tombs. During the 10th century, watermelons entered China, via China to Russia and other European countries.

Purpose/Use

Watermelon is considered both a fruit and a vegetable. It is used as a sweet enhancer or a dessert after the everyday meals. Many fun recipes have been introduced and consumed by human beings. It is also made into juices with different combinations to add that zing flavor. In China, the watermelon is stir-fried, stewed and often pickled and in Russia the watermelon is pickled and eaten.

Benefits & Features

In summers, watermelon becomes the all favorite and a must have as it is known to quench the summer thirst as well as a sure shot way to beat the summer heat. Watermelon is rich in vitamin A, vitamin B6 and vitamin C and is also fat free.