Prepare the Watermelon Concentrate

1. Pick a sweet, ripe watermelon and remove seeds and rind.
2. Cut into cubes and blend until smooth.
3. Strain through a fine mesh to get about 3–4 cups of juice.

Reduce and Concentrate the Watermelon Juice

1. Pour juice into a saucepan and simmer over medium-low heat.
2. Cook 15–20 minutes until reduced and syrupy.
3. Stir in lime juice, honey, rose water, and salt, then cool.

Make the Mint Simple Syrup

1.  Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
3. Add mint and vanilla, steep 30 mins, then strain.
4. This syrup adds depth to the shaved ice.

Prepare the Ice Base

1. Mix water, ½ cup concentrate, and 2 tbsp mint syrup in a bowl.
2. Adjust sweetness to taste.
3. Pour into trays or a pan for freezing.
4. Freeze solid for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Prepare the Toppings and Garnishes

1. Toast coconut flakes until golden and fragrant.
2. Let them cool fully.
3. Wash and dry fresh mint sprigs.
4. Zest the lime with a fine grater.
5. Keep all garnishes ready for serving.

Shave the Ice

1. Remove ice and let it sit for 2–3 minutes to soften.
2. Use an ice shaver or snow cone machine for fine texture.
3. Alternatively, scrape with a fork or pulse in a food processor.

Assembly and Presentation

1. Quickly mound shaved ice into chilled bowls or glasses.
2. Add more concentrate and syrup to taste.
3. Top with coconut, sesame seeds, mint, and lime zest.
4. Serve immediately with spoons and enjoy.