An Easy Preserved Lemon Recipe and How to Use Them Recipe Lemon from www.pinterest.com
Introduction
Preserved lemons are a staple in Moroccan cuisine, and they're also becoming increasingly popular in Western cuisine. These lemons are a unique ingredient that can add a zesty, tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. Preserving lemons is a simple process that anyone can do at home. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to make preserved lemons, along with some ideas for how to use them in your cooking.
Ingredients
To make preserved lemons, you'll need the following ingredients: - 4-6 large lemons - 1/2 cup of salt - 1 cinnamon stick - 4-6 bay leaves - 4-6 peppercorns - 1 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice - A quart-sized jar with a lid
Lemons
When making preserved lemons, it's important to use organic lemons. Non-organic lemons may contain wax, pesticides, or other chemicals that can affect the preservation process.
Salt
The salt you use for this recipe should be a coarse, unrefined salt. Kosher salt or sea salt are good options.
Jar
Choose a quart-sized jar with a tight-fitting lid. A mason jar or a similar type of jar works well.
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients, let's get started on making preserved lemons.
Step 1: Wash and Sterilize Your Jar
Before you begin, make sure that your jar is clean and sterilized. You can do this by washing it in hot soapy water and then placing it in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. Allow the jar to cool before using it.
Step 2: Prepare the Lemons
Wash the lemons thoroughly and cut off the stem end. Cut each lemon into quarters, leaving the bottom intact so that the lemon opens up like a flower.
Step 3: Stuff the Lemons with Salt and Spices
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of salt into the bottom of the jar. Place a lemon in the jar and sprinkle another tablespoon of salt over it. Add a cinnamon stick, bay leaf, and a few peppercorns to the jar. Repeat this process, layering the lemons and spices until the jar is full.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice
Pour enough freshly squeezed lemon juice over the lemons to cover them completely. The lemons should be completely submerged in the liquid.
Step 5: Seal the Jar and Store
Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least one month. During this time, the lemons will soften and the flavors will meld together.
Step 6: Use the Preserved Lemons
After one month, your preserved lemons are ready to use. To use them, remove a lemon from the jar and rinse it under cold water to remove any excess salt. Discard the pulp and use the rind in your cooking.
Nutrition
Preserved lemons are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. They're also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to your diet. However, because they're preserved in salt, they can be high in sodium. It's important to use preserved lemons in moderation and to account for the added sodium in your diet.
Conclusion
Preserved lemons are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They're easy to make at home and can be stored for months, allowing you to always have them on hand. Try adding preserved lemons to your soups, stews, salads, and marinades for a burst of flavor. With this recipe, you'll be able to enjoy the unique taste of preserved lemons in your cooking.
