- Fresh lemons
- Sea salt
- A clean glass jar with a lid
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spoon
Instructions:
1. Choose ripe, firm, and unblemished lemons.
2. Wash the lemons thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residue.
3. Pat the lemons dry using a clean kitchen towel.
4. Cut a small "X" at the top of each lemon. This will help the salt penetrate.
5. Place a layer of salt in the bottom of the glass jar.
6. Place a lemon in the jar with the cut side down, ensuring the salt covers the cut portion.
7. Repeat this process, layering salt between each lemon, until all the lemons are packed in the jar.
8. Pour any remaining salt on top of the lemons.
9. Seal the jar with the lid and shake it gently to distribute the salt.
10. Place the jar in a cool, dark place (like a pantry or cupboard) to preserve.
Here are some additional tips for preserving lemons:
- Use a glass jar with an airtight lid to prevent any moisture or contaminants from entering the jar.
- Make sure the lemons are completely covered in salt to ensure proper preservation.
- Leave the lemons to preserve for at least 4-6 weeks before using.
- Preserved lemons can last for several months when stored properly in a cool, dark place.
- You can use the preserved lemons in various recipes, such as stews, curries, tagines, and marinades. They add a distinctive tangy flavor to dishes.
Enjoy your preserved lemons!