Food & Receipts

The Ultimate Guide to Storing Watermelon Seeds for the Lunar New Year

"With Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, fast approaching, it's time to stock up on essential festive treats. Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chestnuts are traditional favorites, but how do you keep these snacks, especially pumpkin seeds, fresh for longer? Today, we reveal the ultimate, easy-to-follow guide to preserving these tasty treats, so you can enjoy them throughout the festive season and beyond."

Administrator

10 July, 2024

During the Lunar New Year, it’s a tradition for families to stock up on various snacks such as watermelon seeds, chestnuts, dried plums, and candies to offer guests during festive visits. However, it’s common for households to be left with an abundance of these snacks once the holiday season passes, leading to waste. Moreover, improper storage of these snacks, especially watermelon seeds, can result in quick deterioration.

Watermelon seeds, though considered a dry snack, can become soggy if left out in the open for too long. This affects their taste and texture, making them less crispy and aromatic than they should be. Consuming watermelon seeds that have been exposed to dust and airborne bacteria can also lead to stomachaches and diarrhea.

Watermelon seeds left out in the open can become soggy

1Tips for Long-Lasting Watermelon Seeds

As mentioned, proper storage is key to maintaining the crispness and freshness of watermelon seeds. After each use, it’s recommended to seal the seeds in a plastic bag or container to prevent air and dust from getting in.

Seal watermelon seeds in a plastic bag

If your seeds do become soggy, don’t throw them away! Simply heat a pan and roast the seeds until they dry out, then let them cool down before storing them in a container for later use. If you notice any mold, discard the seeds immediately, as consuming moldy seeds can lead to food poisoning or, in the long run, even cancer.

Keep watermelon seeds in a dry place

It’s best to store snacks like candies and seeds in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, avoiding damp places. Refrain from putting watermelon seeds in the refrigerator, as the moisture and bacteria from other foods can accelerate their deterioration.

2Things to Consider When Buying Watermelon Seeds for the Lunar New Year

Purchase watermelon seeds from reputable sources that provide clear information about their products’ origins. Properly produced and packaged seeds will have comprehensive labels, including manufacturer details, expiration dates, and ingredient lists.

Opt for seeds with a pale color and avoid those with bright red, shiny appearances. While coloring is often used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of watermelon seeds, vibrant red and shiny seeds may indicate the use of industrial dyes, which can be harmful to health, especially for children. Consuming large amounts of these dyes can lead to liver and kidney damage and even cancer.

Choose seeds that are uniform in size and free from insect damage, moisture, and mold. Consistent sizing and the absence of pests or moisture indicate fresh and high-quality watermelon seeds.

Select seeds with a mild aroma, free from strange odors. A gentle fragrance indicates that the seeds are fresh and have not spoiled.

By following these tips, you can ensure the purchase of safe and healthy watermelon seeds and prolong their freshness throughout the festive season.

Frequently asked questions

Watermelon seeds can be stored for up to 3 years if properly dried and stored in a cool, dry place.

The best way to dry watermelon seeds is to spread them out on a paper towel and let them air-dry for about a week, stirring them occasionally. Once they are completely dry, they can be stored in an airtight container.

In Vietnamese culture, watermelon seeds are traditionally eaten during the Lunar New Year celebrations as a symbol of fertility and prosperity. Storing watermelon seeds ensures that there is an ample supply for the festive season.

Freezing watermelon seeds is not recommended as it can affect their texture and make them less crunchy. The best way to store them is in a cool, dry place as mentioned earlier.

Yes, watermelon seeds are edible and nutritious. They are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and various minerals. However, it is recommended to roast or soak them before consuming to improve digestibility and reduce any bitter taste.