Watermelon Rind Tea is another simple beverage with only two ingredients - dried watermelon and water. It can be served hot, room temperature, or cold. The tea is a light to deep brown-red color with a slightly bitter somewhat sweet fruity flavor. The tea uses skin, rind, and the fruit next to the rind. So next time you eat watermelon save the rinds with some of the red fruit still attached.

Ingredients
Watermelon

Directions
Cut the watermelon rind into sections small enough to handle then slice in strips about 1/2 inch wide by 2 inches long. Dry the strips, then roast/toast as indicated below.

Oven Dry
Pre-heat oven to 150F
Spread the melon strips evenly on a flat sheet pan without crowding.
Dry the watermelon for about 2 hours, then reduce heat to 130F and dry for another 4 to 5 hours.

De-Hydrator
Follow manufacturer's instructions.

Oven Roast
Pre-heat oven to 300F.
Spread dried strips on a flat sheet pan.
Roast until strips begin to brown.

Pan Toast
Spread the dried strips in a dry skillet (no oil) over medium heat.
Cook until strips begin to brown, shaking or stirring occasionally.

You can store the dried melon in a container that can be closed tightly. Keep in a cool dry space away from direct sunlight.

To make "tea"
Use about one tablespoon of strips (or 1 tea bag) per 8 ounce cup of water.
Bring water to a full boil, then lower heat to a slow simmer. Add melon strips and simmer for a few minutes for a light tea or longer for a stronger tea. Strain tea into cups and sweeten if desired.