Summer is the season of suffering through catch ups with purposely estranged family members, crying when trying on bathing suits, and most importantly refreshing beverages. As the temperature rises, there's no better way to quench an insatiable thirst and impress the genetic swamp that is your immediate family, than a creative and fun drink dispenser. Yay.
Enter the watermelon keg—an eye-catching centerpiece that screams ‘look how much more effort I put in compared to your sad devilled eggs’. This unique and refreshing party hack transforms a simple watermelon into a functional keg, providing a festive way to serve fun drinks. In this guide, we'll walk you through the easy steps to create your own watermelon keg, ensuring your next summer gathering is memorable for something other than Grandma muttering inappropriate sexual innuendos to your new boyfriend.
Materials and Tools Needed
Here's a comprehensive list of everything you'll need to make your own watermelon keg:
1. Watermelon: Choose a large, ripe watermelon to ensure ample space for your beverage.
2. Tapper Kit: A tapper kit specifically designed for fruit kegs, which includes a spigot and necessary fittings.
3. Sharp Knife: A sturdy, sharp knife for cutting the watermelon.
4. Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop: For scooping out the watermelon flesh.
5. Bowl: To hold the scooped-out watermelon flesh.
6. Cutting Board: A stable surface for cutting and prepping the watermelon.
7. Marker: To outline where you'll make the cuts and insert the tap.
8. Paper Towels: For cleaning up any spills and keeping your work area tidy.
Selecting the Perfect Watermelon for Your Keg
Choosing the right watermelon is crucial for creating a successful watermelon keg. Opt for a large, round watermelon to ensure ample space for your beverage. Look for a uniform shape and a creamy yellow spot on the underside, indicating ripeness. The melon should feel heavy for its size and produce a deep, hollow sound when tapped. A ripe watermelon will yield a sweeter, juicier base for your keg, making your evil sister-in-law envious of your superior fruit selecting skills, while her sad pavlova rots in the corner.
Gathering the Necessary Tools for Your Watermelon Keg
To make a watermelon keg, you'll need a few specific tools. A sharp knife and a spoon or ice cream scoop are essential for cutting and hollowing out the melon. A tapper kit, available at kitchen supply stores or online, is ideal for dispensing your drink. If a tapper kit is unavailable, a small plastic spigot from a hardware store can work as a substitute.
Preparing the Watermelon
To start, wash your watermelon thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat it dry with paper towels. Place it on a sturdy cutting board to ensure a stable surface for cutting.
Shaving the Bottom for Stability
Begin by shaving a small, thin slice off the bottom of the watermelon to create a flat surface. This step is crucial for stability, allowing the watermelon to stand upright without wobbling. Be careful not to cut too deep to avoid creating a hole.
Cutting the Top and Scooping the Flesh
Next, use a sharp knife to cut off the top third of the watermelon. This will serve as the opening for your keg. Once the top is removed, use a spoon or ice cream scoop to carefully scoop out the flesh, placing it in a bowl. To avoid a mess, scoop slowly and methodically, ensuring you remove as much flesh as possible while keeping the rind intact. This hollowed-out watermelon will now be ready for inserting the tap and filling with your chosen beverage.
Installing the Tapper
To install the tapper, begin by marking the spot where you want to insert the tap, typically near the bottom of the watermelon. Use a marker to outline the hole for precision. Carefully cut out the marked section using a sharp knife or an apple corer. Once the hole is made, insert the tapper spigot, ensuring a snug fit. Secure it tightly to prevent leaks. Test the tapper by pouring a small amount of water to check for any drips or adjustments needed. This step-by-step process will ensure your watermelon keg functions flawlessly, ready to serve refreshing drinks at your summer party.
Preparing the Beverage
Choosing the right beverage is key to making your watermelon keg a hit. Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options can work beautifully, adding to the versatility of your party centerpiece.
Making Watermelon Juice
For a refreshing and natural choice, make fresh watermelon juice using the scooped-out flesh. Blend the watermelon chunks until smooth, then strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp. This fresh juice can be served as is or used as a base for other drinks, offering a delightful, hydrating option.
Choosing the Perfect Drink Recipe
Consider a variety of drink recipes that are ideal for a watermelon keg. Non-alcoholic options like Yuzu, Lime and Jalepeno, or lightly-infused sparkling water are great for all ages. For a boozy twist, try cocktails like watermelon mojitos, Pisco cocktail, or margarita. Ensure the drinks are free of large fruit chunks or seeds to prevent clogging the tap, allowing for smooth and enjoyable dispensing.
Keeping the Beverage Cool
To keep your beverage cool, add ice directly into the watermelon keg or pre-chill the watermelon before cutting and preparing it. You can also freeze some of the watermelon juice in ice cube trays and add these cubes to your keg to keep the drink cold without diluting the flavor.
Decorating the Watermelon Keg
Enhance the visual appeal of your watermelon keg by decorating it with festive touches. Use fruit garnishes like citrus slices or mint sprigs around the rim. Consider carving patterns or designs into the rind for added flair. You can also place the watermelon keg in a decorative bowl filled with ice and surrounded by fresh flowers or tropical leaves to create an eye-catching display that elevates your party décor.
Explore StrangeLove’s Premium Beverage Collection
To elevate your watermelon keg experience, explore our range of premium mixers and beverages. Our high-quality, Premium Mixers, such as Tonic 8, Spiced Pineapple, and Hot Ginger Beer, are perfect for creating sophisticated and refreshing entertaining beverages. Whether you're mixing up a classic cocktail or experimenting with new flavours, StrangeLove’s premium mixers will elevate your watermelon keg explorations.
