Short answer. Watermelon rind gliko (gliko me shalqi) is a traditional Përmet spoon sweet made from the firm pale rind under the green watermelon skin. Soaked in cold water and simmered slowly with sugar syrup in copper pots, the rind turns into crisp, clear candied pieces with a delicate, refreshing sweetness. It is traditionally served on small welcome plates with cold water.

Why preserve the watermelon rind?

Most kitchens throw away watermelon rind, keeping only the sweet red flesh. In Përmet, southern Albania, traditional makers use the pale, firm layer between the outer green skin and inner red fruit to craft one of the most distinctive spoon sweets in the Vjosa Valley.

The pale rind has a high pectin structure and dense fiber that holds its shape under long simmering. Unlike soft fruit that breaks down into jam, watermelon rind retains a satisfying crisp bite when preserved in sugar syrup.

The copper pot technique for clear rind

Preparing watermelon gliko requires careful handling. The green outer skin is trimmed, leaving only the firm white rind, which is cut into neat cubes or scalloped shapes. The pieces are soaked in cold water to firm their texture before entering the copper kettle.

Simmered over a steady flame with sugar and lemon juice, the rind absorbs syrup gradually until it becomes translucent and jewel-like. No artificial pectin, gelatin, or food colorings are added. You can buy authentic Watermelon Gliko crafted in small Përmet batches.

How to serve watermelon gliko

Watermelon rind gliko is the lightest and cleanest on the palate among all five Përmet varieties. It provides a refreshing contrast to heavier nut preserves.

Serve one piece per guest on a small plate alongside a tall glass of cold mountain water. Because of its subtle taste, it also pairs exceptionally well with unsweetened tea or Turkish coffee. Sample all five preserved fruits in our complete Gliko Tasting Set.

  • Serve cold with a glass of fresh water on the side.
  • Offer one piece per plate with a small silver fork or spoon.
  • Store open jars in the refrigerator using a clean spoon each time.