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Instructions:
- Prepare the Lemons: Slice the lemons into quarters, leaving the base intact. You want to create an “X” shape so that the salt can penetrate each lemon.
- Salt the Lemons: Coat the inside of each lemon quarter generously with kosher salt. Then pack the salted lemons tightly into a clean jar, pressing them down so that their juices are released.
- Top Off with Salt: Sprinkle more salt on top of the lemons and seal the jar. If necessary, add a little extra lemon juice to ensure the lemons are submerged in their own juices.
- Let It Sit: Store the jar in a cool, dark place for about 3 weeks. During this time, the lemons will begin to soften, and their flavor will ferment.
- Use in Recipes: After 3 weeks, your preserved lemons will be ready to use! They can be added to stews, salads, grain dishes, and sauces, or used as a condiment.
Tip: Preserved lemons can last for up to 6 months if stored in the fridge. Just make sure to always use a clean utensil to remove them from the jar.
3. Lemon Juice Ice Cubes
If you’re not a fan of freezing whole lemons, you can preserve lemon juice in a more convenient way by turning it into lemon juice ice cubes. These cubes are perfect for adding to drinks, dishes, or even making lemony popsicles.
Instructions:
- Juice the Lemons: Squeeze the juice of several lemons into a bowl. You can strain it if you prefer pulp-free juice.
- Pour into Ice Cube Trays: Pour the fresh lemon juice into an ice cube tray, filling each compartment about three-quarters full.
- Freeze: Place the tray in the freezer and freeze the lemon juice cubes for 4-6 hours, or until solid.
- Store in Bags: Once frozen, remove the lemon cubes from the tray and store them in an airtight freezer bag. These lemon juice cubes can be used directly from the freezer and will last for 3-4 months.
Lemon juice ice cubes are a super convenient way to always have fresh lemon juice on hand for recipes, teas, cocktails, and cooking.
4. Lemon Syrup: A Sweet and Tangy Preserve
If you love lemon-flavored drinks, desserts, or want to add a little sweetness to your tea, lemon syrup is a fantastic way to preserve the fresh lemon flavor. This method is great for lemonade, cocktails, or as a drizzle over desserts.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 lemons
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 cups water
Instructions:
- Juice the Lemons: Squeeze the juice of 4-5 fresh lemons into a saucepan. Add the lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Make the Syrup: Add sugar and water to the lemon juice in the saucepan. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let the syrup simmer for 10-15 minutes until the sugar has completely dissolved and the syrup thickens slightly.
- Cool and Store: Once the syrup is ready, allow it to cool completely. Pour the cooled syrup into a clean glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
- Store in the Fridge: The syrup will last for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator. Use it in lemonades, cocktails, desserts, or even as a drizzle over pancakes.
This sweet-tart syrup will keep the fresh lemon flavor intact and be ready to use whenever you need it.
5. Lemon Peel Powder
Lemon peel powder is a fantastic way to preserve the aromatic zest of lemons for a variety of uses. Whether you want to sprinkle it over food, mix it into smoothies, or use it in baking, lemon peel powder adds a refreshing citrus kick.
Instructions:
- Dry the Lemon Peels: After using your fresh lemons for juice or zest, save the peels. Lay the peels flat on a baking sheet and let them air dry for 2-3 days. Alternatively, you can dry them in a dehydrator or on low heat in the oven (around 100°F).
- Grind the Peels: Once the peels are fully dried, grind them into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Store: Store the lemon peel powder in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place. It will keep for several months.
Lemon peel powder is a great addition to your spice rack, perfect for flavoring cakes, cookies, sauces, or even teas.
Conclusion: Enjoy Lemons All Year Round
With these clever preservation techniques, you can enjoy the refreshing, zesty flavor of lemons throughout the year, no matter the season. Whether you’re infusing oils, preserving lemons in salt, freezing lemon juice, making syrup, or creating lemon peel powder, you’ll always have a burst of citrus on hand.
These methods are simple, effective, and require no freezing or cooking, allowing you to keep your lemons fresh for longer and reduce waste. So next time you buy a batch of fresh lemons, try one (or more) of these methods to preserve their deliciousness for months to come!
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