Looking for something to brighten up these dreary winter days? Why not try making your own preserved lemons!

This recipe is relatively easy. All you need are some lemons, a jar, salt, and a whole lotta patience. The prep time for this flavorful condiment may only be 10-15 minutes, but the fermentation takes upwards of three weeks! However, it’s definitely worth the wait, especially if you love Northern African or Southeast Asian dishes.

You can use any lemons that you would like for this recipe, but we recommend organic lemons as you will be consuming the citrus peel. Additionally, smaller, thin-skinned lemons take less time to preserve and tend to taste less bitter after preservation. Because of this, consider using Meyer lemons for an extra sweet, aromatic flavor! Learn more about Meyer lemons here.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• 3-5 lemons, plus 1-2 extra lemons for juicing
• Lots of kosher salt
• A 16 oz. sterilized canning jar (learn how to sterilize your canning jars here)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Scrub and rinse your lemons well.
2. Pour 1-2 tablespoons of kosher salt into the bottom of the sterilized jar.
3. Cut ¼ inch off the stem-side of the lemon.
4. Rotate lemon so it rests on the newly made flat end. Then, slice the lemon lengthwise about ¾ of the way through, leaving the end still attached. Spin lemon 90° and repeat cut so you end with four even slits in the lemon.
5. Stuff the lemon with a generous amount of kosher salt, roughly one heaping tablespoon. Press the lemon back together to lock in the salt.
6. Place lemon into jar and apply pressure with a wooden spoon or muddler to release some of the juices. This will start the pickling process.
7. Repeat with remaining lemons until the jar is tightly packed. Add juice of 1-2 lemons to jar until tops of lemons are submerged.
8. Sprinkle in 1-2 tablespoons salt then seal jars.
9. Store at room temperature for at least three weeks. Refrigerate after opening. Preserved lemons should keep in your refrigerator for up to six months.

TIPS

• You can add various spices to the jar for extra flavor including thyme, peppercorns, and bay leaves.
• Enjoy these preserved lemons in stews, salads, tagines, and more!