Yellow Melon Muscadel

Description

Muscadel is the Malawian name for our Muscatel. Wines are used extensively in the preparation of fruit appetizers.

• Yield: 8 servings, ½ each

Ingredients

• 4 small cantaloupes
• salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tbsp sweet wine (a muscatel or port)
• 1 or 2 sprigs mint

Syrup

• 1 cup sugar
• 1½ cups water or fruit juice
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp vinegar
• 1 tsp ground ginger

Directions

1. About 3 hours before serving, prepare the syrup.
2. Boil the syrup ingredients together for 5 minutes.
3. Strain through a cheesecloth and cool.
4. Serrate 4 small cantaloupes (or any small ) zigzagging across center with a knife to give uniform halves.
5. Remove seeds.
6. Sprinkle salt and pepper.
7. Pour 2 tbsp sweet wine (a muscatel or port) in each half.
8. Fill each with ¼ cup watermelon balls.
9. Pour about 2 to 3 tbsp syrup over each.
10. Refrigerate for several hours before serving.
11. Garnish with 1 or 2 sprigs mint.
12. Serve on salad plates.