Watermelon Keg!

As part of expanding our library of useful reading material, we added a book on modern pioneering

It is a great resource with lots of interesting and practical ideas.

Naturally, the first thing we chose to do was something that has nothing to do with self sufficiency and everything to do with just good old fun.

We made a watermelon keg.  It was so easy and when filled with a tasty watermelon cocktail, it was a hit!

How to make a Watermelon Keg

You will need:

Large watermelon
A large spoon / knife for carving
A spigot - I prefer a plastic, threaded one like you can buy here.

Slice a thin layer off the bottom to allow the watermelon to stand on end.  Keep your cut well within the rind, so that it doesn't leak.

Then take a large slice off the top to create the "lid".  I recommend scoring around the part where you want to cut the lid while the watermelon is standing.  This helps you make a level lid, so that it won't slide off.

Thin slice for the base and then it will stand on its own!

And now, get to scooping.

My homestud at work <3

Scoop and scoop and scoop out all those insides (and don't forget to munch on some watermelon slices while you are at it).

This is the step where Gilbert excels....

Once it is cleaned out, it is time to cut the hole for the spigot on the lower portion of the keg.  Tip: start the hole small and gradually trim it to size.  If you cut it too large, you are out of luck.

My husband let me film him cutting the hole in our second keg.  (Okay I recorded it and told him I was filming after the fact so as not to make him nervous). As you can see in the video, it really is quick and simple.

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Screw in the spigot.  If it is not coming through the inside, scoop out more of the innards until it is exposed.

Then fill with the liquid of your choice.

Presto!  Watermelon keg!

I highly recommend tossing some watermelon (about half a blender's worth) and a handful off chocolate mint leaves in a blender.

Add vodka to taste and blend until smooth.

Now add a bit more vodka (because you pour over ice and it waters down a bit).  Personally I found it tastes about right when you start with a blender half full of watermelon and mint then fill 3/4 full with the vodka.

Then pour over ice and party!

Soooooo freshing!