Watermelon Pickles

Directions

1. 1
   Dissolve salt in cold water; pour over watermelon rind.
2. 2
   Stir in additional water if necessary to cover rind.
3. 3
   Let stand in cool place 8 hours.
4. 4
   Drain rind; cover with cold water.
5. 5
   Heat to boiling.
6. 6
   Cook uncovered just until tender, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain; tie cloves, cinnamon and ginger root in cheesecloth bag. Heat cheesecloth bag, sugar and vinegar to boil in large saucepan, stirring occasionally.
7. 7
   Boil uncovered 5 minutes; reduce heat. Add rind.
8. 8
   Simmer uncovered 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
9. 9
   Remove cheesecloth bag.
10. 10
    Immediately pack mixture in hot jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace.
11. 11
    Wipe rims of jars.
12. 12
    Seal and process in boiling water bath 10 minutes.
13. 13
    Makes
14. 14
    7 to 8 pints pickles.