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Coconut Lime Watermelon Fries

This dish consists of watermelon slices cut into fry-shaped strips that are lightly coated with a coconut-lime marinade and then fried until crispy. The final texture is crunchy on the outside with a juicy, tender interior, resembling crispy vegetable fries with a tropical flavor profile.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Tropical
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large watermelon seedless or de-seeded for easier cutting
  • 1/4 cup coconut milk unsweetened
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon honey optional, for slight sweetness
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • oil for frying vegetable oil enough to submerge the fries

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl
  • Deep-fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Slotted spoon or tongs
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Slice the watermelon into 1/2-inch thick rectangular strips using a sharp knife on the cutting board. Place the slices in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, and honey until well combined and fragrant. Pour the marinade over the watermelon strips, tossing gently to coat evenly. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
    1 large watermelon
  3. Prepare the breading station by placing flour in one shallow dish and panko breadcrumbs in another. Remove watermelon strips from marinade, allowing excess to drip off, then coat evenly with flour followed by dipping into panko breadcrumbs.
    1 large watermelon
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep-fryer or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure correct temperature.
    1 large watermelon
  5. Carefully add the breaded watermelon fries to the hot oil using tongs or a slotted spoon. Fry in batches for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, with bubbling sounds indicating frying action. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
    1 large watermelon
  6. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges if desired. The fries should be crispy on the outside with a vibrant, juicy interior, offering a balance of tropical flavors and satisfying crunch.