Carving a Watermelon

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.