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5.0 from 15 votes

Preserved Lemon Recipe

These tart and sweet Preserved Lemons are the result of a centuries-old preservation technique. You can add them to tons of different dishes!

Prep Time
5 mins
Additional Time
21 d
Total Time
21 d 5 mins
Servings: 24
Course: Condiments
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 6-8 lemons
  • 1/2 cup coarse kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons whole black peppercorns
  • 1-2 bay leaves

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Choose a large, wide-mouthed glass jar and make sure it is clean.
  2. Scrub and clean all of the lemons
  3. Cut each lemon into quarters, stopping just below the bottom, so they stay intact, but spread out like a star.
  4. Place the salt and sugar into a bowl and place the lemons into the bowl, pressing the grainy mixture into the lemon flesh and grinding it in.
  5. Transfer the lemons to the prepared jar. You may have to smoosh them in for them to fit.
  6. Add the peppercorns, bay leaf and remaining salt and sugar mixture.
  7. Fill the jar the rest of the way with water, enough to cover the top lemon.
  8. Seal with the lid and shake a few times.
  9. Place into the refrigerator or on a cool, dry counter. Flip upside down every 3-4 days.
  10. After 3-4 weeks, open the jar and add your preserved lemons to your favorite dish.
  11. If you've tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or star ratings.