Watermelon Rum Punch

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Whenever watermelon is in season, it’s always fun to experiment with new ways to enjoy it. And one of the best ways to do that is to turn it into a crisp, refreshing drink.

Such as, maybe, a punch that everyone can enjoy.

With rum in it.

Like, say, this watermelon rum punch, for example.

With the slight sweetness of watermelon coupled with hints of citrus, white rum, and bubbly ginger beer, this punch is sure to be a go-to beverage for any warm-weather occasion.

What’s in watermelon rum punch?

• Watermelon – For that subtle sweet watermelon flavor. Seedless watermelon is recommended, but the solids and pulp are removed and only the juice is used, so it’s not a big deal if you can only get your hands on a seeded watermelon.
• Light rum – Rum is stilled from sugar, so it’s always a great pairing for sweet drinks like this.
• Orange juice and lime juice – To add a bit of citrus.
• Ginger beer – Great for a crisp, refreshing finish and a few bubbles.

How to pick a watermelon

• Check the stem. If it’s green, that means the watermelon was picked before it had a chance to become ripe. A brown stem is what you want.
• Pick a watermelon with a large yellow spot. This means the watermelon had some to sit and ripen in the sun.
• Aside from the yellow spot, check the other colors of the watermelon. It should be a deep, dark green, with creamy, light yellow stripes.
• The watermelon should look “dull.” A shiny watermelon is likely underripe.
• Press the watermelon with your thumb. If you feel it give a little, it means the watermelon is ripe.
• And finally, gently knock on the watermelon with your knuckles. If the watermelon sounds hollow, that means it’s full of juice, which is what you want. Aovid watermelons that sound like you’re tapping plastic.

What type of rum should you use?

I’m always hesitant to give brand recommendations on alcohol, but in this case, there are a few “go-to” light rums you can seek out for mixed drinks like this, such as:

• Bacardi – Sold almost anywhere and has a reasonable price point for the bottle size.
• Flor de Caña – Similar in price to Bacardi, but might be a tad harder to find.
• Cana Brava – A little more expensive than the previous two, but tends to show up on bartender-favorite lists.

Do you have to use ginger beer?

Ginger beer is great for mixing in drinks thanks to the crisp, refreshing finish, but there are plenty of other beers out there that are amazing in mixed drinks. The only key is picking a beer that won’t completely overpower the subtle watermelon sweetness.

While I have not personally experimented with this, you should be able to use any pale lager or beer with citrus or fruity notes. Diet beers may also work well, as they tend to have a softer flavor profile.

Can you make this drink in advance?

Actually, yes! You totally can!

Simply follow the recipe instructions up until adding the ginger beer. Hold off on adding the ginger beer until just before serving, so that the carbonation will still be fresh.

You can store the pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.

tips & notes for this watermelon rum punch

• Like the glasses used in these pictures? You can get a similar set here: Gold Dot Wine Glasses.
• You’ll also need a trusty food processor for this recipe.

Other great drinks

How to make watermelon punch

Step 1 – In a food processor, blend watermelon until slushy, then pour through a strainer to separate the thicker pulp and seeds. Go ahead and discard anything that’s in the strainer.

Step 2 – Transfer watermelon juice to a large pitcher, then stir in light rum, orange juice, lime juice, and ginger beer.

Step 3 – Serve over ice and enjoy!