Malaysian Watermelon Salad

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/2 cups seasoned rice vinegar
• 2 (3 inch) pieces fresh ginger root, peeled and lightly crushed
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups watermelon rind, white part only, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
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• 1 (1 pound) package thick cut bacon
• 1/2 cup peeled and chopped fresh ginger root
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 4 limes, juiced
• 1 cup seasoned rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 bunch cilantro, stems and leaves separated
• 12 cups chilled seedless watermelon, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped