Spiced Preserved Lemons

May 16, 2023May 16, 20230 1

Spiced Preserved Lemons recipe

by The Chefin Condiment

Prep

10 min

Cook

5 min

Ready In

35+ days

Level

Very easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Varies

Calories

N/A

Sugar

N/A

Fat

N/A

Spiced preserved lemons are a staple in Moroccan cuisine, commonly used in tagines, salads, and stews. But this versatile condiment can add a zesty twist to any dish, whether it’s pasta, chicken, or roasted vegetables. The process of preserving lemons in salt and spices imparts a complex flavor that pairs well with other ingredients in your cooking. You can make a large batch of spiced preserved lemons and store them in the fridge for up to a year to use in your favorite recipes.

Instructions

1.	Wash the lemons and cut off the ends so they can stand upright.
2.	Cut each lemon in a cross pattern, slicing almost all the way through, but leaving the bottom intact.
3.	Rub kosher salt onto the cross and the outside of the lemon and put some salt on the bottom of the jar.
4.	Put the lemons into the jar, packing them tightly, and cover them with 1/2 cup of salt.
5.	Add the cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves into the jar.
6.	Squeeze the juice from 2 additional lemons and pour over the lemons in the jar.
7.	Close the jar firmly and let it sit at room temperature for a week. Shake the jar once a day.
8.	After a week, transfer the jar to the refrigerator and let the lemons sit for at least 3 more weeks before using. Rinse before using.

PROS

Spiced preserved lemons add a unique tanginess to any dish you prepare with them.
They are easy and inexpensive to make in large batches so you can enjoy them all year round.

They are versatile and can be used in a variety of cuisines such as Moroccan, Italian, Greek, Middle Eastern, and South Asian.

CONS

The process of preserving the lemons can take up to a month, so they require patience.

If not rinsed properly, the lemons may be too salty which can affect the overall taste of your dish.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber which are vital for good health. They may help lower the risk of heart disease and stroke, and improve digestion.
Preserved lemons contain probiotics which can boost gut health and help your digestion.

	6 small thin-skinned lemons
	1/2 cup kosher salt
	1 piece cinnamon stick , 2 inch
	2 cloves
	1 bay leaf
	1 wide-mouthed quart-size mason jar , sterilized