Monday, September 1, 2008

Carving a Watermelon

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Halloween is just around the corner. So, in preparation for Jack O Lantern Season, I thought I might carve a watermelon. This was my first attempt at watermelon carving. I had spoken to my friend M who claimed that I could do it--she had seen it all over the place during her respite in Thailand. And, as India is not so close to Thailand, I must have had some innate ability. Well, that didn't really ring true. I had lots of plans for my watermelon but after I got this pattern sorted, I left well enough alone.

Luckily my CSA fruit (apples and watermelon) were exceptionally sweet. I added some sugarplums and blackberries from the market--I had the perfect takealong for a barbeque. I had dreams of coating the fruit in simple syrup and a smidge of chilli pepper as my grandmother did. Only the Indians would think that fruit is too bland to be served in its natural state. But, after some good advice from Maybelle's Dad, I decided to leave well enough alone. Glad I did, because it was a big hit. (And, incidentally, my husband's family is always so nice and supportive, they were impressed with my petty attempt at carving fruit.)

Point here, instead of just cutting up that CSA watermelon, start carving. It ain't too hard and it is satisfying.
1. Put your watermelon on a flat surface and roll it around it is in a stable position.
2. Grab a pencil. (I stupidly picked up a sharpie and as such had unsightly line all over my finished product.)
3. Draw in a pattern. I went with geometric pattern, because carving straight lines is way easier than curved ones. Next time I will get more complex. When coming up with a pattern, think about creating a peak-a-boo effect by carving little elements within elements. It makes the final product look more fancy.
4. Take a deep breath.
5. Cut. (I used a steak knife, but a sharp paring knife would have been better.)
6. If you are more advance, bust out the pumpkin carving devices and gauge out elements to create layers. I didn't do that this time, because I could find those implements. Next time, I promise.

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20 comments:

Anonymous said...

I think this is great! We have lots of watermelons here, but I am not brave enough to try to carve one just like what you did... :)

Vera said...

Such intricate carving! Perfect!

Y said...

Beautiful! I've always wanted to carve a watermelon like that.. Unfortunately I never did have the patience !

Salty Incisor said...

oh so pretty!!! I love it

Natasha said...

Wow! Looks beautiful! what did you cut it with?

OhioMom said...

That is just breathtaking! What wonderful pics ... I have never thought to do more than a scallop edge, thanks for the inspiration :)

maybelles mom said...

Thanks all. Natasha--I just used a steak knife but a paring knife would have been better.

maybelles mom said...

Also, Y, frankly, this took only 15 minutes. It really didn't need any patience. The thing is to plan out your pattern first.

Poonam said...

Wow! that looks cool! love the eclairs below too!

Megan said...

You did an amazing job. I cant beleave it is your first one. Well done.

Family First said...

You sure make it sound like its a piece of cake! You did a great job. I dont have the courage!

Dee said...

This is amazing. I'm not very good with fine detail like this :( We eat a lot of watermelons, but I just cut them up into slices. Boooring!

Alexa said...

Gorgeous. Gorgeous. Gorgeous. I love this idea and presentation.

skoraq cooks said...

Stunning!!! Absolutely beautiful :-)

Anonymous said...

beautiful watermelon bowl!!

glamah16 said...

I was annoyed by all my melons, but I have to say that thats beautiful!

Thistlemoon said...

GORGEOUS!

celia kusinera said...

Wow, I wish I could do that, too!
Great skill you have. :)

Nazarina A said...

Hey,
You too have an eye for detail. Some people would say that we like to brag, but it is that attention to detail that makes us unique! I am glad I discovered you too, now I can visit more often. Love the carving!It is intricate and unique!

maybelles mom said...

Poonam: Thanks.

Megan: Swear!

FAMILY FIRST: do it.

Dee: this does take a little work, but worth it.

Alexa: Thanks

Jo: Thanks.

Tasty Trends: thanks.

glamah16: I know CSAs can be tough

JennDZ - The Leftover Queen: Thanks.

celia kusinera: thanks.

Nazarina A: As long as we are humble and honest and keep it fun, we should be okay.