Pickled lemons

Pickled Lemons Recipe – A Delight for Meat Dishes

Welcome to the fascinating world of pickles! Today, I will guide you step by step in creating delicious pickled lemons, a perfect accompaniment for main meat dishes, especially lamb. Pickled lemons bring a note of freshness and a tangy flavor that will transform any meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. This simple recipe is a perfect example of how basic ingredients can be transformed into something truly special. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 3 weeks
Total: 3 weeks and 10 minutes
Number of servings: Depends on usage (approximately 3 servings)

Ingredients:

- 3 fresh lemons
- 3 teaspoons of sea salt (one for each lemon)
- Boiled and cooled water (enough to cover the lemons)
- 1 sterilized jar (preferably a longer and thinner one)

Ingredient Details

Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, also having an immune-boosting effect. Sea salt, on the other hand, not only helps in preservation but also enhances the flavors, making them more intense. By using fresh and quality ingredients, you will achieve excellent results.

Preparing Pickled Lemons

1. Preparing the Jar: Start by sterilizing the jar. Wash it thoroughly with warm water and detergent, then rinse it with hot water. This step is essential to prevent contamination of the pickles.

2. Washing the Lemons: Take the 3 lemons and wash them with warm water and a little detergent to remove wax and other substances from the skin. Make sure to wash them well, then dry them with a clean towel.

3. Cutting the Lemons: Cut each lemon into four, being careful not to cut them completely (leave them attached at the base). This will allow the salt to penetrate more easily into the pulp.

4. Adding the Salt: Place a teaspoon of salt in the cuts of the lemons. The salt will help extract the juice from the lemons, essential for the pickling process.

5. Filling the Jar: Place the lemons in the sterilized jar. If you have a longer and thinner jar, the lemons will fit perfectly. It is important that the lemons are well compressed so that no air bubbles remain.

6. Adding the Water: Pour boiled and cooled water over the lemons, ensuring they are completely covered. If desired, you can squeeze half a lemon over the water for extra flavor. Use a stick to remove any air bubbles that may form.

7. Sealing and Marinating: Close the jar tightly with a lid. Place it in a cool, dark place (a pantry is ideal) for 3 weeks. During this time, the lemons will ferment, developing a complex and delicious flavor.

Serving and Usage

Pickled lemons are ideal for accompanying meat dishes, especially lamb or chicken, bringing a refined contrast to the rich flavors of the meat. They can also be added to salads or used as a garnish for various dishes. Personally, I love serving them alongside spiced basmati rice, creating a perfect contrast between acidity and sweetness.

Variations

If you want to experiment, you can also add some spices to the jar, such as peppercorns, bay leaves, or dried chili, for a spicier flavor. These additions will further enrich the flavor of the pickled lemons.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long can I keep pickled lemons?
Pickled lemons can be kept for several months as long as they are in a sealed jar and at the appropriate temperature.

2. Can I use organic lemons?
Yes, organic lemons are excellent because they do not have wax and chemicals on the skin.

3. Can I use another type of salt?
Although sea salt is recommended for preserving flavor, you can also use kosher salt or table salt, but avoid iodized salt as it may alter the taste.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Lemons are extremely low in calories, having about 20 calories per 100 grams. Additionally, they are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, providing numerous health benefits, including improved digestion and strengthened immune system.

Conclusion

Pickled lemons are a simple recipe but with a significant impact on dishes. With just a few ingredients and a little waiting time, you will achieve a delicious product that will enrich your meals. Feel free to experiment with flavors and find combinations that delight your taste buds. Happy cooking!