Preserved lemons are a delightful addition to many dishes, providing a tangy and savory depth to recipes such as stews, salads, and marinades. And the best part? You only need two simple ingredients: lemons and salt! Making preserved lemons at home is a breeze. Here’s how you can do it:

Ingredients

• 5–6 fresh lemons (preferably organic, as the peel is used)
• 1/4 to 1/3 cup of kosher or sea salt (table salt won’t give you the same flavor and texture)
• A sterilized glass jar with a tight-fitting lid

Instructions

1. Wash the Lemons

Thoroughly scrub the lemons to remove any dirt or wax. Then, pat them dry with a clean towel.

2. Prepare the Lemons

Cut off the stem end of each lemon. Next, slice the lemons lengthwise into quarters, but make sure not to cut all the way through. The lemons should still hold together at the base.

3. Pack with Salt

Open each lemon slightly and sprinkle a generous amount of salt inside. Rub the salt into the flesh and rind.

4. Fill the Jar

Place the salted lemons into the sterilized jar, pressing them down firmly to release their juices. Sprinkle additional salt between each layer of lemons. Continue until the jar is full, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top.

5. Add Lemon Juice

Squeeze additional lemon juice over the packed lemons to ensure they are completely submerged in liquid. This step is crucial to prevent spoilage.

6. Seal the Jar

Tightly seal the jar with its lid.

7. Cure the Lemons

Store the jar in a cool, dark place like a pantry for 3–4 weeks. Shake the jar every few days to redistribute the salt and juices. After the curing process, the lemons will become soft, and their rind will have a delightful, tangy flavor.

How to Use Preserved Lemons

Before using the preserved lemons, rinse off any excess salt. Then, you can chop or mince the rind to add to stews, tagines, dressings, or marinades. As for the pulp, it can be included in sauces or discarded, depending on your recipe.

Preserved lemons can last up to a year in the fridge if kept submerged in their juices. Enjoy this simple yet transformative ingredient in your cooking! ?✨