Watermelon, the beloved fruit of Vietnam, is the ultimate summer treat, perfect for quenching your thirst and refreshing your palate. Loved by families across the country, watermelon has a rich history and comes in a variety of flavors. Join us as we explore the legend behind this delicious fruit, its different varieties, how to eat it, where it’s grown in Vietnam, its health benefits, and even some delightful food made from it.
The Legend of Mai An Tiem and Watermelon
If you’re familiar with Vietnamese folk tales, you may have heard about the legend of Mai An Tiem, the person who first planted the delicious watermelon seed. Long ago, during the reign of Hung Vuong 18th, Mai An Tiem was a young man known for his quick wits, resourcefulness, and hard work. Despite being loved by the king and married to the king’s adopted daughter, Mai An Tiem remained humble and continued to work hard, never relying on the king’s fortune. Unfortunately, his good intentions were misunderstood, and he was falsely accused and exiled to a desert island. Undeterred, Mai An Tiem believed that his hard work would ensure his survival.
One fortunate day, Mai An Tiem noticed a group of birds from the West, feasting on a black seed near the shore. Inspired by this, he gathered all the seeds and planted them in the ground. Day by day, he tirelessly nurtured the garden, and when the harvest season arrived, Mai An Tiem, along with his wife and children, enjoyed the juicy, sweet, and delicious fruits they had grown. And thus, the watermelon as we know it today was born.
Variety
Vietnam offers a range of watermelon varieties, some imported and others indigenous to the region. Let’s explore a few of them:
Yellow Rind Watermelon
The yellow rind watermelon stands out with its vibrant yellow exterior, while the flesh remains the familiar juicy red. This variety is known for its delightful sweetness.
Tiny Watermelon
Also known as Cucumber watermelon (Dua Hau Chuot), this variety belongs to the vines family. The light green flesh of the tiny watermelon is refreshingly crunchy, resembling a cucumber, with a hint of sourness.
Cream Fleshed Suika
The cream fleshed Suika is a unique variety with creamy white flesh, making it a favorite among those who appreciate its luscious, slightly sweet taste. This rare melon comes with a hefty price tag.
Pepino Watermelon
A cross between a watermelon and a pear melon, the pepino watermelon, also known as the yellow striped melon, is an intriguing hybrid with an exciting flavor profile.
How to Eat
Eating watermelon can be a bit of a challenge due to its size and sturdy rind. But fear not! Here’s a simple guide to enjoying this refreshing summer fruit. Start by using a sharp knife to cut the melon into four equal parts. Then, continue slicing each part into smaller, more manageable pieces. Carefully separate the melon peel from the flesh, and arrange the juicy wedges on a plate. Now, you can savor the rewarding sweetness of watermelon.
Where Watermelons Grow in Vietnam
Watermelons thrive in the hot and dry weather, making the southern region of Vietnam, known for its eternal summer, an ideal location for watermelon gardens. However, these versatile plants can adapt to the tropical weather conditions across the country and can be grown year-round in almost any region. Notable areas for watermelon cultivation include Gia Lai, Nghe An, Dalat, Saigon, and more.
Benefits of Watermelon
Watermelon is not only a refreshing summer favorite but also a healthy choice. With its high water content and rich vitamins and minerals, it is beneficial for overall health, especially during hot days. Regular consumption of watermelon can reduce dehydration after exercise, minimize cramps, and prevent dizziness. Moreover, watermelon contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known to promote cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of stroke, and help maintain healthy blood pressure.
Food Made from Watermelon
As the scorching summer approaches, nothing beats a refreshing natural juice, and watermelon is a popular ingredient. Whether mixed into watermelon juice, blended into smoothies, or combined with medicinal herbs in traditional medicine, such as Western medicine, honeysuckle, or chrysanthemum, watermelon adds a cooling and rejuvenating touch. Its hydrating properties help prevent dehydration and invigorate the body.
Discover the joys of watermelon and experience its delicious flavors, history, and health benefits. Soak in the vibrant stories and tantalizing tastes that make watermelon an integral part of Vietnamese culture. Enjoy the journey and make sure to indulge in this delightful summer fruit.