Thai Fruit Primer

Watermelon (Taeng-mo) Scientific name: Citrullus vulgaris schard Season: October to March

Sweet red chunks of watermelon are an essential part of nearly every Thai fruit platter. And a favorite material for skilled Thai fruit carvers.

In Thailand, pieces of Watermelon are often dipped into salt before eating. The juice of the Watermelon is widely sold as a beverage.

Watermelons are grown in most parts of Thailand and are available throughout the year, though March is the peak of the season.

How to choose a Watermelon.
1. Look the watermelon over, choose a firm, symmetrical watermelon that is free of bruises, cuts and dents.
2. Lift it up - the watermelon should be heavy for its size. Watermelon is 92% water, that accounts for most of its weight.
3. Turn it over - on the underside of the watermelon there should be a creamy yellow spot from where it sat on the ground and ripened in the sun.

These tips will help you pick the best watermelon available.