Recipe: Preserved Lemons
Description:
Preserved Lemons are a cherished staple in Moroccan cuisine, imparting a tangy and slightly salty flavor that elevates a wide array of dishes, from hearty stews to refreshing salads. This traditional recipe, originating from “The Casablanca Cookbook” by Sarah Key, Jennifer Newman Brazil, and Vicky Wells, captures the essence of Moroccan culinary heritage. With just two simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create these flavorful gems that will enhance your cooking with their unique zestiness.
Keywords: Moroccan, African, Low Protein, Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Kosher, Free Of…, Weeknight, Canning, No Cook, Easy
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 21.6
- Fat Content: 0.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 56589.9mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 11.6g
- Fiber Content: 5.1g
- Sugar Content: 0g
- Protein Content: 1.3g
Ingredients:
- 4 lemons
- 2 parts salt
Instructions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | With a sharp knife, carefully poke holes all around the middle of the lemons. This allows the salt to penetrate and infuse the lemon thoroughly. |
| 2 | Take a 1-quart (1 liter) jar and begin layering the lemons inside, alternating with the salt until the jar is filled to the brim. Ensure each layer is well-covered with salt. |
| 3 | Seal the jar tightly with an airtight lid to prevent any air from entering. This is crucial for the preservation process. |
| 4 | By the following day, the mixture should naturally produce enough liquid to submerge the lemons. If not, add additional salt until the lemons are fully covered. It’s important not to use water in this process. |
| 5 | Place the jar in a cool, dry place and let it sit for 2 weeks. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the lemons will soften, creating a delicious brine. |
| 6 | After 2 weeks, your preserved lemons are ready to be used in various dishes. You can refrigerate them at this point to prolong their shelf life for up to 6 months. |
Tips:
- Use organic lemons for the best results, as they are free from any wax or pesticides that may affect the flavor.
- Feel free to customize your preserved lemons by adding spices like whole peppercorns, bay leaves, or cinnamon sticks for extra depth of flavor.
- When using the preserved lemons in recipes, rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt, then chop or slice as desired.
Enjoy the exotic flavors of Morocco with these homemade Preserved Lemons! 🍋🌿
