Why salting watermelon might make the experience of eating it even more enjoyable

Salting watermelon might sound strange at first, but it can actually make the fruit taste even better! 

When you sprinkle a little salt on watermelon, it enhances the sweetness and makes the flavours pop. This simple trick can transform your summer snack into something extraordinary. 

Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator tells indianexpress.com  why adding a pinch of salt to your watermelon can be a game changer.

She says, “While there aren’t exactly complex chemical reactions happening, salting watermelon brings out its flavour through some interesting mechanisms. Watermelon has subtle bitter undertones that can compete with its sweetness. Salt acts like a flavour balancer, suppressing the bitterness and allowing the sweetness to shine.” 

Salt activates your taste buds, she adds, making them more receptive to sweetness. It also draws out the natural juices in watermelon. This can make each bite feel more refreshing and intensify the overall eating experience. 

Nutritional benefits or drawbacks to salting watermelon

Salt adds minimal nutrition to watermelon, says Malhotra. The bigger concern is sodium intake. While the benefits are only in terms of enhancing the flavour, she states, if you have high blood pressure or need to restrict sodium for medical reasons, excessive salting can be detrimental. While a small amount likely won’t make a significant difference, consult your treating doctor and dietician for personalised advice. 

If you have high blood pressure or need to restrict sodium for medical reasons, excessive salting can be detrimental (Source: Freepik)

How does salting watermelon affect its texture and juiciness?

Salting watermelon offers a delightful way to enhance its sweetness and juiciness. Salt has a minimal effect on texture. However, Malhotra indicates that for slightly under-ripe watermelon, it can make the flesh feel slightly softer and juicier. Salting draws out the natural juices, making each bite feel more refreshing and intensifying the flavour experience.

Cultural or regional practices of salting fruits

According to Malhotra, “While salting fruits is as widespread in India as pickling vegetables, it does hold a place in some regional culinary traditions.” 

Here’s a look at how salt complements Indian flavours: 

Ayurvedic Influence: Ayurveda, India’s traditional medicine system, emphasises balancing tastes (rasa) for overall well-being. Salt (lavana) is one of the six tastes, and a small amount can aid digestion and enhance other flavours. 

Seasonal Delights: In some parts of India, particularly during the scorching summer months, fruits like mangoes and watermelon are enjoyed with a sprinkle of salt. This not only adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness but also helps replenish electrolytes

Regional Variations: In India a popular summer drink called “aam panna” is made with raw mangoes, jaggery, and a pinch of salt. This sweet, tangy, and slightly salty beverage is a delicious way to beat the heat. 

Accompaniments and Street Food: Fruits like guava or raw papaya might be served with a chaat masala sprinkle, a spice mix that often includes black salt, creating a complex interplay of sweet, salty, sour, and savory flavours. Vendors selling these fruits on the street might offer a dash of salt for customers who prefer the extra tang. 

“Beyond taste, salt holds cultural significance in India. It’s considered a symbol of hospitality and is often offered to guests along with other auspicious items. Sprinkling a touch of salt on a fruit offering might be seen as a way to enhance the experience and show respect for the guest,” Malhotra elaborates. 

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