How To Make Watermelon Ham @NickDiGiovanni
How To Make Watermelon Ham @NickDiGiovanni is a medium American recipe that serves 4. 80 calories per serving. Recipe by Chef Boyardeez on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 1 hr | Total: 1 hr 30 min
Cost: $5.45 total, $1.36 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 medium Watermelon (seedless, about 5‑6 lb; cut in half lengthwise)
- 2 tsp Salt (prefer sea salt for better flavor)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Chili Powder
- 6 pieces Whole Cloves (for garnish, gives classic ham look)
Instructions
Prepare the Watermelon
Place the watermelon on a cutting board, cut it in half lengthwise, remove any seeds, and score the flesh in a cross‑hatch pattern about ½ inch deep.
Time: PT5M
Season the Watermelon
Evenly sprinkle the salt, garlic powder, and chili powder over the scored surface, patting gently so the spices adhere.
Time: PT3M
Preheat the Grill for Smoking
Set up the grill for indirect heat, add a handful of wood chips to a smoker box (or foil packet), and preheat to about 225 °F (107 °C).
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 225°F
Smoke the Watermelon
Place the seasoned watermelon halves flesh‑side down on the grill grates, close the lid, and smoke for 45‑60 minutes until the flesh is tender and looks like rare meat.
Time: PT45M
Temperature: 225°F
Add Clove Garnish
During the last 15 minutes of smoking, press a whole clove into the flesh of each half for a classic ham appearance.
Time: PT2M
Rest the Watermelon
Remove the watermelon from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Time: PT5M
Slice and Serve
Using a sharp knife, slice the smoked watermelon into thin “ham” slices and arrange on a platter. Serve warm or at room temperature with mustard, pickles, or your favorite side.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 80
- Protein
- 1 g
- Carbohydrates
- 20 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free
Allergens: Cloves
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Watermelon: Cantaloupe (will give a sweeter flavor), Honeydew (similar texture)
- Instead of Salt: Kosher salt, Pink Himalayan salt
- Instead of Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic (1 clove), Garlic salt (reduce added salt)
- Instead of Chili Powder: Smoked paprika, Cayenne pepper (use half the amount)
- Instead of Whole Cloves: Whole peppercorns, Allspice berries
Equipment Needed
- Sharp Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Grill with Indirect Heat Capability
- Smoker Box or Foil Packet
- Tongs
- Meat Thermometer (optional) (optional)
- Serving Platter (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Scoring the watermelon to create surface area
- Preheating the grill to a steady 225 °F
- Maintaining consistent smoke for 45‑60 minutes
- Checking internal temperature for proper doneness
Chef Tips from the Video
- Mix equal parts applewood and hickory chips for a balanced sweet‑smoky profile.
- Brush the scored surface lightly with olive oil before seasoning to help the spices stick.
- Serve with a grainy mustard or a tangy pickle relish to mimic traditional ham accompaniments.
Troubleshooting
Watermelon is too watery and falls apart.
Pat the flesh dry with paper towels after cutting and before seasoning; reduce smoking time slightly.
Not enough smoky flavor.
Add more wood chips or use a stronger wood like hickory; keep the lid closed to trap smoke.
Watermelon becomes mushy.
Lower the grill temperature to 200 °F and shorten the smoking time; avoid over‑cooking.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture degrades when frozen.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Score and season the watermelon up to 24 hours ahead; keep refrigerated and covered.
- You can smoke the watermelon a day before and reheat gently over low indirect heat before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Watermelon Ham in American barbecue cuisine?
Watermelon Ham is a modern, plant‑based twist on the classic smoked ham tradition that dates back to colonial America. It reflects the growing interest in vegan alternatives for holiday and barbecue tables, allowing vegetarians to enjoy the smoky, savory experience of ham without meat.
What are the traditional regional variations of smoked fruit “ham” in the United States?
While watermelon is the most popular fruit for this novelty, some Southern cooks experiment with smoked cantaloupe or pineapple, often adding regional spice blends like Cajun seasoning or maple glaze to reflect local flavor preferences.
How is Watermelon Ham traditionally served in American summer gatherings?
It is typically sliced thin and presented on a charcuterie board alongside mustard, pickles, and crusty bread, mimicking the way traditional ham is served at picnics and Fourth of July barbecues.
What occasions or celebrations is Watermelon Ham traditionally associated with in American culture?
Because it is a fresh, eye‑catching centerpiece, Watermelon Ham is popular at summer barbecues, picnics, and even holiday meals where a vegetarian main dish is needed, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in Watermelon Ham versus acceptable substitutes?
The authentic recipe uses sea salt, garlic powder, chili powder, and whole cloves for garnish. Substitutes include kosher salt, fresh minced garlic, smoked paprika, or whole peppercorns, which still deliver a similar flavor profile.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Watermelon Ham?
Common errors include scoring the watermelon too shallow (reducing smoke penetration), smoking at too high a temperature (causing mushiness), and neglecting to rest the fruit before slicing, which can make the slices fall apart.
Why does this Watermelon Ham recipe use a low smoking temperature of 225 °F instead of a higher grill temperature?
A low temperature allows the watermelon’s high water content to slowly evaporate while the smoke infuses the flesh, creating a firm, meat‑like texture without turning the fruit into mushy mush.
Can I make Watermelon Ham ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. After smoking, let it cool, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low indirect heat or serve cold; avoid freezing as the texture degrades.
What does the YouTube channel Chef Boyardeez specialize in?
The YouTube channel Chef Boyardeez specializes in creative, off‑beat twists on classic dishes, often using unconventional ingredients and playful presentation to inspire home cooks to experiment.
How does the YouTube channel Chef Boyardeez's approach to American barbecue differ from other cooking channels?
Chef Boyardeez focuses on novelty and visual surprise—like turning fruit into ham—while still teaching solid grilling fundamentals. Other channels may stick to traditional meat‑centric recipes, whereas Chef Boyardeez pushes the boundaries of ingredient substitution.
Last updated: September 6, 2026
