Watermelon

Pastèque

What it is

Seeds have been found in Egyptian tombs, including Tutankhamun's, where it was left as a water source for the afterlife rather than as food — the fruit is over ninety per cent water and keeps for months unopened.

In the kitchen

Salt brings out the sweetness dramatically, which is why the feta pairing works. Serve it cool, not ice cold — the cold mutes it.

Goes with

Feta Mint Lime Black pepper Basil Olive oil Cucumber Red onion

Same species

Egusi

Also used with

Basil seed Chaat masala Graviera Halloumi Himalayan pink salt

In season alongside

Bell pepper Prickly pear Honeydew melon Kiwi berry Lychee Mangetout

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