Pickled Watermelon

Directions

1. 1
   Stir water and salt together in a large bowl. Add watermelon balls. Cover and let stand on counter overnight. Drain. Rinse and drain again.
2. 2
   In a large saucepan combine next 5 ingredients. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. 3
   Add watermelon.
4. 4
   Return to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered for about 20 minutes.
5. 5
   Remove cinnamon pieces.
6. 6
   Pack fruit into hot sterilized pint jars to within 1 inch of top.
7. 7
   Bring syrup to a full rolling boil on medium-high heat for approximately 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Don't boil too long or syrup will start to caramelize and change color. It will thicken a bit with a tinge of golden color.
8. 8
   Pour syrup over fruit to within 1/2 inch of top.
9. 9
   Place sterilized metal lids on jars and screw metal bands on securely.
10. 10
    Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.