Preserved lemons are a traditional method of keeping lemons fresh for extended periods. With just lemons, salt, and jars, you can create a tangy and flavorful ingredient that stays fresh for up to a year outside the refrigerator. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making preserved lemons.

Ingredients:

• Fresh lemons (about 6–8 medium-sized, organic if possible)
• Kosher or sea salt (about 1 cup)
• Additional fresh lemon juice (as needed)
• Sterilized glass jars with tight-fitting lids (1 large jar or a few small jars)

Instructions:

1. Wash the Lemons:

• Wash the lemons thoroughly with warm water to remove any wax or residue. Organic lemons are ideal for preserving as they are free from pesticides.

2. Slice the Lemons:

• Cut each lemon lengthwise into quarters, but do not cut all the way through; leave the quarters attached at one end. This will allow the lemon to open up without separating entirely.

3. Salt the Lemons:

• Generously sprinkle salt inside each lemon, covering the exposed flesh. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt per lemon.

4. Pack the Lemons into the Jar:

• Place the salted lemons into the sterilized jar, pressing them down firmly to release some juice. Layer each lemon with more salt, packing them tightly so they are compressed.

5. Add Extra Lemon Juice:

• Once the jar is full, squeeze additional lemon juice to cover the lemons entirely. This ensures that the lemons remain submerged in liquid, which is essential to prevent spoilage.

6. Seal the Jar:

• Close the jar tightly with a lid and leave it in a cool, dark place at room temperature. The lemons will soften and release juices over time, creating a brine.

7. Let the Lemons Cure:

• Let the jar sit at room temperature for about 3–4 weeks. During this time, turn the jar upside down every few days to distribute the salt and brine. The lemons will become soft and translucent as they cure.

8. Storage:

• After curing, the preserved lemons can stay fresh at room temperature for up to a year. Once opened, you can transfer them to the fridge if preferred, but they will keep well outside as long as they remain covered in brine.

How to Use Preserved Lemons:

• Rinse and Chop: Rinse the lemon to remove excess salt, then chop the rind finely and add to dishes.
• In Salads and Dressings: Preserved lemons add a rich, tangy flavor to salads, dressings, and marinades.
• Enhance Soups and Stews: Use preserved lemons in soups, stews, and tagines for a burst of citrusy flavor.
• Flavor Grains: Chop and mix into couscous, rice, or quinoa for a unique twist.

This simple method preserves lemons beautifully, allowing you to enjoy their vibrant flavor in your cooking all year long.