Jams & Jellies

Preserved lemons

⏱ 15 min👤 10 pp★★☆☆☆

Lemons preserved in salt: a recipe from Morocco, a classic of that cuisine, and later assimilated by French cookery which made it famous worldwide. Lemons preserved in salt in this way, after a month, become really delightful: the preservation method makes the pulp and lemon zest sweeter rather than sour, making these lemons excellent for various types of cooking, either baking or steaming, with either fish or chicken, turkey and other meats, and is also great for making desserts, or dressings, to flavour salads and so on. So, you will always have on hand a delicious aroma with which to flavour your food. Let’s have a look at our chef’s recipe for preserved lemons together.

Ingredients

Nutritional values 15 kcal / serving

Protein
0.5g
Carbohydrates
5g
Fat
0.1g
Fiber
1.5g

* approximate values per serving

Information
15 minutes Total time
Serves 10 persons
★★☆☆☆ Medium difficulty

Preparation

This recipe needs very little other than a lot of patience. After just one month, these fabulous lemons can be eaten as an accompaniment to your favourite dishes. Take as many lemons as you want and cut them into four segments, keeping them together at the base. Fill the lemons with the salt, close them up and insert them one by one into a suitable container. Then cover with some more salt and, before sealing, press them down well. Then store in a cool dark place for at least a month.

Tips
For this recipe you must use untreated lemons: to recognize them at the supermarket take a bit of time to look at their appearance. Untreated lemons have imperfections and are not very beautiful to look at, nor do they have a regular shape, and are not shiny: this shine comes from a special wax that allows them to be stored for a long time.
Trivia
Preserving in salt has the main purpose of retaining over time the nutritional values and taste of a particular food: in this case we used it for lemons, but you can also use the method for meat, fish or dairy products, to keep foodstuffs over time, ranging from a few days to a few years. Salting came from the Chinese and the Egyptians, and is carried out in two different ways: either by rubbing salt on the surface of the food, or distributing the product between layers of salt. This process blocks all harmful microorganisms but obviously increases the quantity of sodium in the treated food.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Preserved Lemons with Coarse Whole Salt

Preserved Lemons, prepared with coarse whole salt, offer a unique way to preserve lemons. This variant enhances the natural flavor of the citrus, making them perfect for enriching both sweet and savory dishes. The preparation requires patience: the lemons must rest for at least a month in a jar, but the final result is worth the wait. By using coarse whole salt, optimal preservation is promoted, keeping the nutrients and flavor intact. These lemons can be used in many recipes, from salads to desserts, adding a touch of freshness and acidity. You will discover how simple lemons can transform into a versatile and surprising ingredient.

French-Style Preserved Lemons

The preparation of French-Style Preserved Lemons is an art rooted in the culinary tradition of France. This preservation method not only enhances the flavor of the lemons but also allows them to retain their properties for a long time. Once preserved, the lemons can be used in numerous typical French dishes, such as Provençal chicken or lemon tarts. The French preservation technique is based on the use of salt and time, allowing the lemons to mature and develop a rich and complex flavor. Using them in the kitchen will bring an authentic and refined touch to your recipes, making every dish special.

Light Preserved Lemons without Sugar

For those seeking a lighter version of Preserved Lemons, it is possible to prepare them without sugar, keeping their essence intact. This light variant is ideal for those who wish to limit their sugar intake but do not want to give up the intense flavor of preserved lemons. By using only coarse salt, the lemons will be ready to be used in fresh and light dishes, such as salads or marinades. Additionally, this sugar-free preparation is perfect for those following specific diets or for anyone wanting to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Light Preserved Lemons can become an ally in the kitchen, enriching your dishes with a touch of acidity and freshness.

Preserved Lemons: Benefits and Nutritional Values

Preserved Lemons are not only a tasty addition to your dishes but also an ingredient with several health benefits. Lemons are rich in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and promotes skin health. Additionally, lemon has digestive properties and can help maintain the body's water balance. The preparation of Preserved Lemons retains much of these properties, making them a great way to benefit from the virtues of lemon even after the season. The calories in this preparation are relatively low, making Preserved Lemons a healthy and versatile option to enrich your meals without adding too many calories.

Can Preserved Lemons be Frozen?

A common question regarding the preservation of Preserved Lemons is: can they be frozen? The answer is yes, but with some precautions. It is advisable to first cut the lemons into wedges or slices to facilitate future use. Once frozen, Preserved Lemons can be used directly in recipes without the need to thaw them, although it is good to know that the texture may change. In any case, the flavor will remain intense and aromatic. This preservation method is useful for those who want to always have a versatile and flavorful ingredient on hand, ready to be used at any moment. Be sure to store them in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn and best preserve their aroma.