The 1901 Cookbook Archive
No. 3786 — Keeping Melons and Watermelons Fresh until Midwinter
English historical translation of Molokhovets recipe No. 3786 from the 1901 Russian cookbook, retaining original methods and measures.
Choose winter varieties of melons and watermelons that are not quite ripe.
Pack in a small barrel or larger cask, depending on quantity, surrounding the fruit with dry ashes so the melons touch neither the bottom, sides nor one another.
Cover with a thick layer of ash, secure the barrel lid and place somewhere cold and dry or bury deeply in ice.
Historical editorial note: Ash can contaminate fruit, and this historic method is not validated for modern storage.
Original source: Read Russian recipe No. 3786. Historical quantities and terminology are retained. See the measurements guide. Period preparation and storage methods are not modern safety guidance.