Lemon juice is a versatile ingredient. It can brighten up a dish, add a tangy kick to a drink, and even clean your microwave. But fresh lemon juice doesn’t last forever. If you’ve ever squeezed a bunch of lemons only to find the juice has gone bad, you know the frustration. That’s where preserving comes in. And one of the oldest, simplest, and most effective methods? Preserving with salt.
Why Preserve Lemon Juice with Salt?
- Extended Shelf Life: Salt acts as a natural preservative, inhibiting the growth of unwanted bacteria and molds. This means you can keep your lemon juice fresh for much longer than usual.
- Enhanced Flavor: The salt doesn’t just preserve; it also mellows the tartness of the lemons and intensifies the flavor. The result is a unique, pickled taste that elevates your culinary creations.
- Zero Waste: Preserving lemons whole allows you to use the entire fruit, including the peel. The peel softens over time and loses its bitterness, making it perfect for cooking.
What You’ll Need
- Lemons (about 8 large lemons)
- Kosher salt (1/2 cup)
- Sugar (2 tablespoons)
- Optional spices: peppercorns, bay leaves, cardamom pods
- Fresh lemon juice (from 7-8 lemons or about 2 1/2 cups)
- A large, sterilized canning jar or smaller jars with air-tight lids
Step-by-Step Guide to Preserving Lemons
- Prepare the Lemons: Wash and dry your lemons. Cut about 1/4 inch off the top and bottom of each lemon. Then, cut each lemon into quarters, but don’t cut all the way through; the base should remain intact.
- Salt and Sugar Mixture: In a large bowl, toss the lemons with kosher salt and sugar. Open the lemons and stuff the mixture inside.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. This process helps the lemons release their juices.
- Pack the Jar: Transfer the lemons and their juices to a sterilized canning jar. Press them down firmly to fit them snugly. Add peppercorns and bay leaves if desired.
- Submerge in Lemon Juice: Top the lemons with fresh lemon juice, ensuring they are completely submerged.
- Seal and Store: Seal the jar tightly and store in the refrigerator for at least 3 weeks, up to 1 month before using. Shake the jar occasionally to disperse the juice and salt.
How to Use Preserved Lemons
Once your lemons are preserved, the culinary possibilities are endless:
- Tagines and Stews: Preserved lemons are a staple in Moroccan cooking, adding depth and brightness to tagines and stews.
- Salads: Finely chop the preserved lemon peel and add it to salads for a unique twist.
- Sauces: Incorporate preserved lemon into sauces for fish, chicken, or vegetables.
- Cocktails: Use preserved lemon to create zesty and savory cocktails.
- Lemon Juice: You can use the lemon juice from the jar in salad dressings, marinades, or sauces.
Before using, rinse the lemon to remove excess salt. Then, separate the peel from the pulp and discard the pulp. Chop the peel according to your recipe’s instructions and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Sterilize Your Jar: Use a sterilized jar to prevent the growth of unwanted bacteria.
- Use Enough Salt: Salt is key to the preservation process. Don’t skimp on it.
- Be Patient: The lemons need time to cure and soften. Wait at least 3 weeks before using them.
- Keep Refrigerated: Always store your preserved lemons in the refrigerator to maintain their quality.
- Quality Counts: Start with the best lemons you can find. Meyer lemons have a slightly sweeter flavor.
How Long Do Preserved Lemons Last?
If stored properly in the refrigerator, salt-preserved lemons can last up to 6 months.
The Unexpected Twist: Salt Juice
While we’re on the topic of preserving lemon with salt, let’s explore an intriguing variation: salt juice. Salt juice is a simple beverage made with water, Himalayan salt, and lemon juice. It is not to be confused with preserved lemon juice, as it is intended for immediate consumption.
Salt Juice Recipe
- 12 ounces of water
- ½ teaspoon of Himalayan salt
- Juice of half a lemon
Mix all the ingredients and drink it first thing in the morning.
Why Drink Salt Juice?
Some people swear by salt juice for its potential health benefits, including hydration and electrolyte balance.
Final Thoughts
Preserving lemon juice with salt is a simple yet transformative technique that unlocks a world of culinary possibilities. So grab some lemons, salt, and a jar, and get ready to elevate your dishes with the zesty secret of preserved lemons!