Browsed by
Tag: Preserved Lemon

Thyme-Infused Ricotta, Preserved Lemon Salsa Bruschetta

Thyme-Infused Ricotta, Preserved Lemon Salsa Bruschetta

Thyme-Infused Ricotta, Preserved Lemon Salsa Bruschetta

 

4 cups (1L) full-fat milk

11/2 tbs apple cider vinegar

2 tsp thyme leaves

 

1 preserved lemon quarter, rind only, finely chopped

1 tsp salted capers, rinsed, chopped

1 Asian (red) eschalot, finely chopped

1 lemon, peeled, segmented

1 tsp finely chopped flat-leaf parsley

1 tsp finely chopped mint, plus extra to serve

1 tsp finely chopped oregano leaves

1 tsp thyme leaves

1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil

Pinch cayenne pepper

Pinch ground white pepper

 

Grilled sliced sourdough bread

Extra virgin olive oil

 

For the preserved lemons, preheat oven to 110°C. Wash three 2-cup (500ml) jars and lids in hot soapy water, rinse, then dry well (alternatively, put through the hottest cycle of a dishwasher). Set lids aside and transfer jars to oven for 15 minutes. Remove from oven and set aside until cool enough to handle. Place lids in a saucepan of boiling water and boil for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside to air dry. Leave to cool to room temperature. Meanwhile, combine salt, fennel seeds, bay leaves, thyme and saffron in a large bowl and set aside. Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil, add lemons and top with a heatproof plate or lid smaller than the saucepan to keep lemons submerged. Simmer for 12 minutes or until softened slightly, then remove and stand to cool. Quarter cooled lemons and toss through the salt mixture until heavily coated. Tightly pack the lemon quarters into sterilized jars, dividing the salt mixture among the jars and topping up to the brim with lemon juice. Seal jars and store in a dark place for at least 3 months before using (store, chilled, for up to 3 years). To make the ricotta, combine milk, vinegar, thyme and a pinch of salt flakes in a heavy-based saucepan over low heat. Cook, stirring occasionally only until curds begin to form. Keep cooking (without stirring) until temperature reaches 85°C on kitchen thermometer. Remove from heat and stand for 15 minutes to cool. Line a fine sieve with muslin or a clean cheese cloth and, using a slotted spoon, transfer curds to sieve to strain (use strained whey in other recipes, or you can drink it chilled. Ricotta can be served warm, or it can be stored, covered and chilled, for up to 3 days). For the preserved lemon salsa, combine all the ingredients in a bowl, then stand for 1 hour for flavors to develop. To serve, top the sourdough with the ricotta and lemon salsa, scatter over extra mint and drizzle with oil.

Herb and Preserved Lemon Salsa

Herb and Preserved Lemon Salsa

Herb and Preserved Lemon Salsa

 

2 large handfuls mixed herbs, such as flat-leaf parsley, basil, and mint, washed, dried, and de-stemmed

1 clove garlic, peeled

¼ preserved lemon, rinsed and finely chopped

1 T. Dijon mustard

4 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

 

Roughly chop your herbs into one large pile. Add the garlic into the mix and continue chopping until the herbs are finely chopped and the garlic is nearly a paste. Spoon into a small serving bowl and whisk in the remaining ingredients. The oil should coat the herbs and pool around the sides of the bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper, or more preserved lemon as desired. The flavor should be fresh and a little sour.

Preserved Lemon Cilantro- & Scallion Pesto

Preserved Lemon Cilantro- & Scallion Pesto

Preserved Lemon Cilantro- & Scallion Pesto

 

⅓ cup pepita (pumpkin) seeds or sesame seeds

1 T. chopped preserved lemon, seeds removed

1 T. fresh lime juice

1 T. chopped garlic

¼ tsp. fine sea salt, plus more

2 bunches scallions, cut into 1-inch lengths (2 C.)

1 bunch cilantro including stems, cut into 1-inch lengths (2 C.)

6 T. vegetable oil

2 T. soy sauce, plus more

 

Heat the seeds in a small pan over medium-low heat and toss every couple of minutes until toasted and light golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes for pepitas. Transfer to a shallow dish to cool. If using a mortar and pestle, pound the preserved lemon with the pepitas, garlic and salt until roughly smashed. Add the scallions and cilantro and pound into a coarse paste, then stir in the oil and soy sauce. If using a food processor, pulse the pepitas, garlic and salt to coarsely grind. Add the scallion and cilantro and pulse into a coarse paste, scraping the bowl as needed. With the machine running, add the oil and soy sauce. Stir in more oil for a runnier sauce if desired, then season to taste with soy and salt.

Summery Bean Salad with Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette

Summery Bean Salad with Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette

Summery Bean Salad with Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette

1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

1 preserved lemon, lightly rinsed and flesh discarded, rind thinly sliced

1/2 teaspoon agave nectar

1/3 cup olive oil

couple grinds fresh ground pepper

1 – 2 pinches salt

for the bean salad

2 cups cannellini beans, either cooked from dried or from one can of no sodium added beans

1 dry pint French green beans (haricots verts), stem ends trimmed and cut in two

1 handful or two of yellow or red cherry or grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise

3 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion

 

To prepare the vinaigrette, place the shallot and vinegar in a bowl and let sit for about 5 minutes. Whisk in the agave nectar, and then the oil. Add in the preserved lemon rind and a couple of grinds of pepper. Set aside. Combine the two kinds of beans, the tomatoes and onions in a serving bowl. Spoon about half the dressing over top and mix gently to combine. Add more Tablespoon by Tablespoon until you achieve a balance you like. You might not use it all and can save the rest in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for a couple of days.

Braised Beef with Preserved Lemons & Harissa

Braised Beef with Preserved Lemons & Harissa

Braised Beef with Preserved Lemons & Harissa

 

1 (3-pound) bone-in chuck roast, or 2 pounds stew meat

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil I medium onion, cut into large dice

1 Preserved Lemon or store-bought, rinsed and finely chopped (peel only)

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1½ teaspoons ras al hanout (see note)

1 teaspoon cumin seeds, coarsely ground

1 teaspoon coriander seeds, coarsely ground

1 to 3 tablespoons harissa, depending on your preferred heat level

3 cups beef stock or vegetable broth

2 sprigs fresh thyme

1 bay leaf

1 cup lightly packed, coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley leaves

½ cup lightly packed, coarsely chopped cilantro leaves

 

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Pat the meat dry with a paper towel and season well with salt and pepper. In a Dutch oven or heavy, ovenproof pan with a lid, warm the oil over medium-high heat. Add the meat and sear it for 3 to 4 minutes on each side for a chuck roast, or brown the meat on all sides for stew meat. Be careful not to crowd the pan, browning in 2 batches if necessary. Remove the browned beef from the pan to a large bowl. Add the onion to the pan and cook, stirring frequently to scrape up the brown bits on the bottom. After 3 or 4 minutes, or when the onion has softened slightly, add the lemon, garlic, ras al hanout, cumin, coriander, and harissa. Continue to cook for a few minutes, until the ingredients are aromatic. Put the meat back in the pan, along with any juices in the bowl. Add the stock, thyme, and bay leaf, and bring the mixture to a boil. Carefully remove the pan from the heat, cover it with the lid, and put it in the oven. Cook the beef for 2 hours (for stew meat) or 3 to 3½ hours for a larger, bone-in cut. Check the level of the stock occasionally, adding a little bit of water if the level is low or the pan or meat seems dry. The meat is ready when it is meltingly tender and has fallen off the bone. To serve, season to taste with additional salt and pepper, and add the parsley and cilantro. NOTE: Ras al hanout is a North African spice blend. Find it online and at well-stocked groceries or Middle Eastern markets. To make your own, lightly toast and grind 1½ teaspoons coriander seeds, ¾ teaspoon cumin seeds, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Add 1¼ teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, and ½ teaspoon each of ground cardamom, ground ginger, and turmeric.

Grilled Ribeyes with Hasselback Sweet Potatoes and Preserved Lemon Gremolata

Grilled Ribeyes with Hasselback Sweet Potatoes and Preserved Lemon Gremolata

Grilled Ribeyes with Hasselback Sweet Potatoes and Preserved Lemon Gremolata

 

2 bone-in rib-eye steaks, about 1 1⁄2 lb [680 g] each

4 sweet potatoes, about 8 oz [225 g] each

Extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

Preserved Lemon Gremolata (see below)

 

One hour before serving, remove the steaks from the refrigerator to allow them to come to room temperature. Using a sharp knife, cut each sweet potato crosswise into 1/8 in [3 mm] slices, cutting only three-fourths of the way through the potatoes so they stay intact. To prepare the potatoes in the oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F [220°C]. Place the cut potatoes, sliced-side up, on a foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast until the potatoes are browned on the outside and tender in the center, 50 to 60 minutes. To prepare the potatoes on the grill: Prepare a grill for direct cooking over medium-high heat, 400°F [200°C]. Grease the grill grate lightly. Place the cut potatoes on a grill-safe roasting pan. Drizzle with oil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Place the pan on the grill, then cover the grill. Roast until the potatoes are browned on the outside and tender in the center, 50 to 60 minutes. Remove the potatoes from the grill or transfer to the warming section of the grill. Rub each steak with oil, and sprinkle salt and pepper generously over each side. Place the steaks on the grill and cook, allowing each side to sear, until the internal temperature of the steak reaches 130°F [55°C] for medium-rare, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove the steaks from the grill, and let rest for 10 minutes. Slice the steaks against the grain. Place the potatoes and sliced steak on a platter. Drizzle a spoonful of the gremolata over each sweet potato and serve, passing the remaining gremolata at the table.

 

PRESERVED LEMON GREMOLATA

 

2 T. white wine vinegar

2 tsp. honey

1⁄4 C. [30 g] finely chopped shallot

1 C. [40 g] finely chopped fresh parsley

1⁄2 C. [80 g] roasted, salted almonds, finely chopped

2 T. minced preserved lemon, plus 1 tsp. preserved lemon liquid

1⁄2 C. [120 ml] extra-virgin olive oil

Kosher salt

Freshly ground pepper

 

In a medium bowl, whisk together the vinegar and honey until the honey dissolves. Stir in the shallot and let sit for 5 minutes. Add the parsley, almonds, lemon and liquid, and oil, and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, or store in an air­tight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Caesar Salad with Roasted Onion, Preserved Lemon, and Bacon

Caesar Salad with Roasted Onion, Preserved Lemon, and Bacon

Caesar Salad with Roasted Onion, Preserved Lemon, and Bacon

 

1 medium red onion, quartered

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

4 thick slices nitrate-free bacon

4 (l-inch) slices artisanal bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

4 small heads assorted garden lettuce (about 1/2 pound lettuce leaves total), roughly chopped

2 cups shaved Parmesan cheese

1 cup loosely packed microgreens or small, soft herbs (such as parsley or chervil)

1 teaspoon finely chopped preserved lemon

DRESSING

1 egg

3 oil- or brine-packed anchovy fillets

1 1//2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1//4 cup fresh herb leaves (such as a mixture of parsley, chives, tarragon, and basil)

1 garlic clove, peeled and smashed

1//4 cup champagne vinegar

2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese

1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Juice of 1/2 small lemon (about 1 tablespoon)

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

 

Make the salad: Preheat the oven to 35O°F. Place the onion quarters in a small casserole dish, coat with the oil, and roast for 30 minutes, or until soft. Set aside to cool. While the onion roasts, heat a large pan over medium heat. When hot, add the bacon and cook until crisp, about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Set the bacon aside to drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Increase the oven temperature to 4OO°F. Place the bread cubes in a large bowl, drizzle the butter on top, and mix (hands work best) until the bread is evenly coated. Transfer the bread to a baking sheet and toast for 10 to 15 minutes, turning once or twice, until golden brown on all sides. Set aside to cool. Make the dressing: While the bread toasts, place the egg in a small bowl, add boiling water to cover (just about a cup), and let stand for 10 minutes. (This is called coddling the egg; it cooks most of the white outside but not the yolk.) Gently break open the egg and pour the liquid parts into a blender or food processor, discarding the cooked parts. Add the anchovies, mustard, herbs, garlic, vinegar, shredded Parmesan, Worcestershire, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste, and blend well. With the machine running, add the oil in a slow, steady stream, blending until completely smooth.  Place the lettuces in a large mixing bowl. Slice and add the onion, then crumble and add the bacon. Add the croutons, shaved Parmesan, microgreens, and preserved lemon. Just before serving, toss the salad with just enough dressing to coat the leaves evenly.

Spicy Tunisian Tomato Sauce with Olives & Preserved Lemon

Spicy Tunisian Tomato Sauce with Olives & Preserved Lemon

Tomato sauce is infinitely adaptable. This version takes the basic Italian sauce and heads south with it, across the Mediterranean Sea, to Tunisia. It includes either Baharat or Ras el Hanout spice blend, along with paprika, cinnamon, preserved lemons, and olives. It’s fabulous as the base for a Moroccan Tagine (and is specified for Moroccan Kefta Tagine (Spicy Meatballs & Tunisian Tomato Sauce). But it’s also delicious tossed with linguini or strozzapreti pasta, Italian-style.

¼ C. cold pressed, extra-virgin olive oil
1 large onion, minced (2½ C. or 10 oz. minced)
4 cloves of garlic, minced or pressed
2 tsp. Baharat or Moroccan Ras el Hanout
2 tsp. ground cumin (only if Ras el Hanout contains no cumin)
2 tsp. ground paprika
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
½ C. dry white wine
28 oz. canned, crushed tomatoes
2 C. chicken stock, plus more as needed
2 tsp. fine sea salt, plus more to taste
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
1 tsp. wildflower honey, plus more to taste
1 C. large cerignola mix, calamata, or green olives, pits removed, and cut into quarters lengthwise
½ C. small preserved lemons, cut into quarters or eighths lengthwise, pits removed
¼ C. chopped cilantro

In a large sauté pan, over medium-low heat, heat the oil and add the onions. Cook the onions slowly, partially covered, until soft and translucent but not browned, about 10 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes more, stirring to incorporate. Add the baharat or ras el hanout, cumin (if needed), paprika, and cinnamon. Stir to incorporate. Turn the heat up and add the wine. Simmer until almost all liquid is evaporated. Add the tomatoes and chicken stock. Simmer slowly, partially covered for 15 minutes. Add the olives and preserved lemons, and continue cooking for about 15 minutes longer, until sauce is slightly thickened, with a silky sheen. Total cooking time will be about 30 minutes. If the spices still taste harsh at this point, add a little more stock, and simmer longer. If needed, thin the sauce with additional chicken stock. Sauce should not be too thick. Taste for seasoning, and add salt, pepper, and honey to taste. Just before serving, add the cilantro. Sauce can be used immediately or cooled and refrigerated for up to 3 days. It’s even better on day two. Makes about 2 quarts.

Bulgur with Asparagus and Preserved Lemon Dressing

Bulgur with Asparagus and Preserved Lemon Dressing

????????????????????????????????????

For the dressing:
1 preserved lemon
7 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (freshly ground if possible)
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated black pepper

For the asparagus and bulgur:
1 pound asparagus, cut into 2-inch lengths
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 red onion, chopped
1 cup bulgur
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 cup chopped toasted walnuts (I toasted mine for 10 minutes in a 350-degree oven, but listen to your nose; when they smell fragrant, they’re done)

To make the dressing, cut the preserved lemon in half. Chop one half and place all of it in a blender. Use a spoon to remove the pulp from the remaining half and add only the pulp to the blender. Save the rind for another use. Add the remaining dressing ingredients to the blender and process until smooth. Set aside. To make the asparagus and bulgur, bring a large pot 2/3 full of salted water to a boil and add the asparagus. Cook just until tender, about 4 minutes. Drain and immediately plunge the asparagus into cold water. If not shocking asparagus, cook just 3 minutes, since they will continue to cook off the heat. Cool, drain, and set aside. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the onion and cook for 1 minute. Add the bulgur and cook, stirring, until lightly toasted, 4 to 5 minutes. Add 2 cups of water and the salt and bring to a boil. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the water has evaporated and the bulgur is tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Fluff with a fork, and bring to room temperature. Place the cooled bulgur in a large serving bowl. Toss with asparagus and walnuts, and drizzle dressing overtop. Fold to coat salad with dressing. Serve at room temperature. Salad will keep in the refrigerator for several days.

Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette with Parsley and Mint

Preserved Lemon Vinaigrette with Parsley and Mint

img_73521 preserved lemon
2-3 cloves of garlic
small handful of fresh mint (about 1/4 cup when chopped fine)
medium handful of fresh parsley (about 1/2 cup when chopped fine)
1/2 cup white wine vinegar
1.5 cups extra virgin olive oil
salt and white pepper to taste
500 ml mason jar with a lid

Slice lemons and remove any seeds. Finely mince lemon until pulpy and add to mason jar. With a microplane, grate garlic into mason jar. Chop parsley and mint very fine and add to jar. Add vinegar and oil and shake until well mixed and emulsified. You probably don’t need to add salt (the lemons are salty), but taste and add salt and pepper to taste.

Red Onion, Parsley, and Preserved Lemon Salad

Red Onion, Parsley, and Preserved Lemon Salad

3 C. thinly sliced red onions
1/2 C. coarsely fresh flat-leafed parsley leaves
2 T. olive oil
Peel of 1/8 preserved lemon cut into julienne strips, plus 1/3 C. preserved lemon juice or fresh lemon juice to taste
1 large garlic clove, minced
1/4 tsp. ground coriander
A pinch cayenne, or to taste
Coarse salt to taste

In a bowl cover onions with cold water and soak 30 minutes. Drain onions well and pat dry between layers of paper towels. In a bowl stir together onions with remaining ingredients and let stand, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes.

Moroccan Chicken with Lemon and Olives Recipe

Moroccan Chicken with Lemon and Olives Recipe

2 tsp. paprikamc
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. ground ginger
1 tsp. turmeric
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper
2 T. olive oil
1 chicken, 3-4 lbs, cut into 8 pieces (or 3-4 lbs of just chicken thighs and legs, the dark meat is more flavorful)
Salt
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, chopped
The rind from 1 preserved lemon, rinsed in cold water, pulp discarded, rind cut into thin strips
1 C. green olives, pitted
1/2 C. water
1/2 C. raisins
1/4 C. chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 C. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Combine all the spices in a large bowl. Pat dry the chicken pieces and put in the bowl, coat well with the spice mixture. Let the chicken stand for one hour in the spices. If you are using a clay tagine (if you have one, you must soak the bottom in water overnight before using), place it on a heat diffuser on the heating element to prevent the tagine from cracking, and place the olive oil in the tagine and heat it on medium heat. If you do not have a tagine, you can use a thick-bottomed, large skillet with a cover. Heat the oil in the skillet on medium high heat. In either case, sprinkle the chicken pieces very lightly with salt (go easy on the salt, the olives and preserved lemons are salty) and place skin side down in the tagine or skillet for 5 minutes, until lightly browned. Lower the heat to medium-low, add the garlic and onions over the chicken. Cover and let cook for 15 minutes. Turn chicken pieces over. Add the lemon slices, olives, raisins, and 1/2 C. water. Bring to a simmer on medium heat, then lower the heat to low, cover, and cook for an additional 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and quite tender. Mix in fresh parsley and cilantro right before serving. Adjust seasonings to taste. Serve with couscous, rice, or rice pilaf.

Preserved Lemon Hummus

Preserved Lemon Hummus

Goodie-Godmother-Preserved-Lemon-Hummus1 preserved lemon, rinsed under cold water, pulp and rind roughly chopped
1/2 C. sesame tahini
2 T. miso paste
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
4 T. olive oil
1 16-ounce can chickpeas (keep the liquid)

Combine the lemon, tahini, miso, garlic, cayenne, olive oil, chickpeas, and 4 T. of chickpea liquid in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Add more chickpea liquid if necessary to get to a good, silky consistency. I predict you will taste this to see that it is the right consistency, and then you will eat most of it out of the blender. This is that kind of hummus.

Preserved Lemon Kale Caesar

Preserved Lemon Kale Caesar

a4118d6e194763119b26581aa9812abd4 ounces (about 1/4 loaf) any seeded sourdough bread
2 T. olive oil
1/2 tsp. salt
1 large bunch lacinato kale, washed and dried, removed from the stalks, and torn into 2-inch pieces
1 T. red wine vinegar
The flesh of 1 preserved lemon, rinsed under cold water (peel right off of the peel and remove the seeds)
The rind of 1/2 preserved lemon, roughly chopped
2 garlic cloves, peeled
1 tsp. honey
Fresh-ground black pepper
1/3 C. olive oil
1 egg yolk
1/2 C. grated Parmesan cheese

Make the croutons: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Tear the bread into rough, bite-size pieces and toss with the olive oil and salt. Spread on a baking sheet, and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside to cool. Make the dressing: Combine the vinegar, preserved lemon flesh, garlic, honey, and pepper in a blender. Blend until well combined. Then, with the motor running on low speed, slowly add the olive oil through the whole in the lid of the blender. Stop the motor and add the egg yolk. Blend for a few seconds. Pour 3/4 of the dressing over the kale and toss well. Taste, and add more dressing if you think it needs it. Sprinkle the Parmesan, chopped lemon rind, and croutons over top of the salad and toss again.

Spicy Potato Tagine with Preserved Lemon and Olives

Spicy Potato Tagine with Preserved Lemon and Olives

tagine2 pounds red potatoes
1 small onion, grated and squeezed dry, plus 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
3 T. extra virgin olive oil
1/3 C. grated tomato (discard skin)
1/4 tsp. ground ginger
1/4 tsp. hot Hungarian paprika
Pinch of ground cumin
1 tsp. crushed garlic
1 bay leaf
1/4 fresh lemon
2 T. chopped flat-leaf parsley
2 T. chopped fresh cilantro
Salt
4 to 5 dry saffron threads, crumbled
24 juicy purple or tan olives
1/2 preserved lemon

Peel the potatoes and thickly slice into a bowl of cold water. In heavy saucepan set over moderate heat, cook the grated onion in olive oil until melting, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the tomato, ginger, paprika, cumin, and garlic. Cook, stirring, for 2 more minutes. Drain the potatoes and add to the pan with the thinly sliced onion, the bay leaf, and the fresh lemon quarter. Toss to coat the potatoes, onion, and lemon quarter with the parsley, cilantro, and salt to taste. Add the saffron and 1 1/2 C. hot water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to very low and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 40 minutes. Use a slotted spatula to transfer to a covered serving dish to keep warm. Discard the lemon. Add the olives to the liquid and boil until the pan juices are reduced to a thick sauce. Correct the seasoning, pour over the potatoes, and garnish with the preserved lemon. To grate tomatoes: Halve and gently squeeze to remove the seeds. Grate the tomato halves, cut side facing the coarsest side of a box grater or flat shredder. You will be left with just the tomato skin on your hand; discard. Wolfert recommends cooking this dish the way Moroccans traditionally do: in a clay pot such as a Mexican cazuela or Moroccan tagine. The porous clay absorbs liquid from the dish, then slowly releases steam as it heats, which results in a more flavorful, juicy dish. Moroccan tagines are available at www.tagines.com. A note of warning: Clay pots are sensitive to rapid temperature changes, which can cause cracking. Don’t put anything hot in a cold tagine or anything cold in a hot tagine. Consider investing in a flame-tamer or heat-diffuser (a metal plate that’s placed over the burner) to distribute heat evenly.

Marinated Mozzarella with Preserved Lemon and Basil

Marinated Mozzarella with Preserved Lemon and Basil

0941c0c3a335de2b4ca4b2f6f2c98b214 buffalo mozzarella, sliced
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
30g preserved lemon rind
½ cup (125ml) olive oil
2 tablespoons olive oil, extra
12 basil leaves
Crispy flat bread, to serve

Place the mozzarella, garlic and preserved lemon on a platter and spoon over the oil. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until ready to serve. Heat the extra oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Cook the basil for 30 seconds or until bright green and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on absorbent paper. Top the mozzarella with crispy basil leaves and serve with the flatbread. Serves 8.

Rice Salad with Merguez and Preserved Lemon Dressing

Rice Salad with Merguez and Preserved Lemon Dressing

fw200708_ricesalad1 cup jasmine rice

1 1/2 cups water

Salt

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1/4 preserved lemon, rind only, minced (see Note)

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tablespoon harissa

3/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 fennel bulb, cored and finely diced

1/3 cup pitted Picholine olives, chopped (2 ounces)

1 pound merguez sausage, cut into 3/4 inch-thick slices

1 pint grape tomatoes, halved

1 cup coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley

 

In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with the water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil, cover and cook over low heat until the rice is tender, about 18 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer to a medium bowl. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk all but 1 teaspoon of the olive oil with the lemon juice, preserved lemon, garlic, harissa and cumin. Pour the dressing over the rice and toss well. Add the fennel and olives and season lightly with salt. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Add the merguez sausage and cook over moderately high heat, stirring once or twice, until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the sausage to the salad. Stir in the tomatoes and parsley and serve.

 

Make Ahead The rice salad can be prepared several hours ahead and served at room temperature. Notes Preserved lemons are a common Moroccan ingredient made from lemons that have been preserved in lemon juice and salt for several days, until very soft. Look for them at specialty food shops.

Sticky Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Honey

Sticky Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Honey

BBC Food Website (27th February 2012)1 T. black peppercorns
2 lemons, juice only
Good squeeze or two of runny honey
Dollop grainy mustard
2 garlic cloves, crushed
6 large chicken thighs, bone in and skin on
Sea salt, to taste
2-3 preserved lemons
Handful green olives, pits removed, sliced
Small handful fresh flatleaf parsley, leaves only

Preheat the oven at 200C/400F/Gas 6. Place the peppercorns into a pestle and mortar and grind until roughly crushed. Add these to a large bowl together with the lemon juice, honey, mustard and garlic and mix well. Place the chicken thighs into a large roasting tin and pour the lemon and honey mixture over the chicken, leaving it to marinate for as long as possible. Sprinkle with sea salt, to taste, then cook in the hot oven for 45 minutes, turning halfway through cooking so that the thighs become lovely and sticky. Meanwhile, cut the preserved lemons open and remove the soft flesh to leave you with just the skin (discard the flesh). Cut the skin into strips and toss together with the olives and parsley. When the chicken is ready, serve sprinkled with the olive, parsley and preserved lemon mixture.

Preserved Lemon-Edamame Tapenade

Preserved Lemon-Edamame Tapenade

edamame1 cup edamame, rough chopped
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
1/3 cup minced, preserved lemons
1 tablespoon minced parsley
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
4 whole wheat pitas, split in half, cut into triangles, lightly brushed with extra virgin olive oil and baked crisp at 200 degrees

Combine all tapenade ingredients in a large bowl, check for flavor and season. Serve with pita chips.

Israeli Couscous with Butternut Squash and Preserved Lemons

Israeli Couscous with Butternut Squash and Preserved Lemons

cc1 1/2-pounds (700 g) butternut squash, peeled and seeded
3 T. olive oil
Salt
1 large onion, peeled and minced
1 3/4 C. (280 g) Israeli couscous, or Italian pepe-style pasta
1 small cinnamon stick
1 preserved lemon
1/2 C. (60 g) golden raisins
1/4 C. (30 g) dried cherries or cranberries, coarsely chopped (optional)
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 C. (60 g) chopped flat-leaf parsley
2/3 C. pine nuts, toasted (see Note)

Preheat the oven to 475F (245C). Cut the squash into 1/4-inch (1 cm) cubes and toss them with 1 T. of olive oil and a seasoning of salt in a large baking dish or pan. Cook on the upper rack of the oven until the squash is just tender, about 15 minutes. (Don’t overcook.) While the squash is cooking, heat the remaining 2 T. of olive oil in a skillet and cook the onions over medium-high heat with a bit of salt until translucent. As the squash and onions are finished, scrape them into a large bowl. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the Israeli couscous with the cinnamon stick until tender, about 10 minutes. While the couscous cooks, cut the preserved lemon in quarters and scoop of the insides, which you should reserve. Dice the lemon into 1/4-inch (1 cm) cubes, add them to the squash, then press the reserved flesh through a strainer to extract the liquid, and add the liquid to the squash. Drain, but don’t rinse the couscous. Discard the cinnamon stick. Add the couscous to the bowl of squash, then add the raisins, cherries or cranberries (if using), ground cinnamon, parsley, and toasted pine nuts. Serving: Serve warm, although it can also be served at room temperature.

Do-Ahead Tip: You can make this ahead, up to one day in advance, and rewarm it before serving. If so, leave the parsley and toasted pine nuts out, and mix them in right before serving.

Ken Oringer’s Lacquered Pork Belly with Preserved Lemon, Soy Sake Glaze

Ken Oringer’s Lacquered Pork Belly with Preserved Lemon, Soy Sake Glaze

1 12-inpork bellych x 8-inch piece pork belly
1 C. preserved lemon
1 C. soy sauce
2 C. sake
2 C. Coca Cola
2 C. sugar
2 T. coriander seeds
2 T. fennel seed
Steamed white rice, for serving

Place all ingredients in large saucepot. Bring to boil and simmer gently for 3 hours until pork belly is soft when poked with meat fork. Remove the belly and reduce sauce to a light glaze. Glaze top of belly. Serve with steamed white rice.

Roasted Pepper, Tomato, and Preserved Lemon Relish

Roasted Pepper, Tomato, and Preserved Lemon Relish

2 red bell peppers, roasted, peeled, and seeded
1/4 tsp. salt
2 tsp. diced salted lemon rind
1 tomato, peeled, seeded, and diced
1 tsp. balsamic or rice vinegar
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 C. olive oil
1 baguette bread, sliced

Finely dice roasted peppers. Combine with the salt, salted lemon rind, tomato, and vinegar. Set aside. Turn oven on to broil. In a small bowl, combine the garlic and olive oil. Cut 12 slices of baguette on a diagonal. Paint each one with olive oil/garlic mixture. Place on a baking sheet. Broil until lightly browned, 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Let cool and top with tomato/bell pepper mixture. Serve immediately.

Lentils with Spinach and Preserved Lemon

Lentils with Spinach and Preserved Lemon

1 turkey kielbasa
1/2 lb brown or black lentils
1 C. sliced onion
1/4 C. olive oil
3 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped
1/4 C. chopped fresh coriander or parsley
10 oz. frozen spinach leaves, completely thawed and roughly chopped (or fresh baby spinach)
2 medium Yukon Gold or red-skinned potatoes, peeled and sliced
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 C. chopped rind of preserved lemons

In a frying pan, brown the kielbasa until very brown. Set aside. Wash and pick over the lentils. Place in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to the boil. Cook, covered, about 20 minutes. Meanwhile, brown the onion in oil in a large casserole or Dutch oven. Stir in the garlic and coriander/parsley. Add the spinach and sauté 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the potatoes, lentils, and enough cooking liquid to cover. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to the boil, lower the heat, and cook at the simmer for 1 hour, or until thick and soupy, about 20 minutes. Stir in the chopped preserved lemons and the sausage. Serve hot, lukewarm, or cold.

Preserved Lemon Citrus Chicken with Chervil Gremolata

Preserved Lemon Citrus Chicken with Chervil Gremolata

20090413-secretingredient-chicken1 chicken, cut into pieces, about 4-4 1/2 pounds
1 T. chopped fresh chervil
Salt and pepper
2 T. olive oil
1 or 2 small preserved lemons, thinly sliced, seeded, and rinsed
2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Zest of 1/2 orange
Zest of 1/2 lemon
3/4 C. dry white wine
1 C. chicken stock
2 T. crème fraîche

When you buy a whole chicken cut up into pieces, you will get 2 breasts, 2 thighs, 2 wings, and 2 legs. Because the breasts are so much bigger than the other pieces, I cut them each in half, cutting perpendicularly through the bone. Season the chicken pieces liberally with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with 1 T. chopped fresh chervil. Heat a wide, deep sauté pan over medium heat, and when the pan is hot, add the oil. Place the chicken in the hot pan, and sear until golden brown. Turn over, and sear until golden brown on the other side. Remove to a plate. Lower the heat to low, and add the preserved lemons, garlic, and citrus zests. Quickly stir them around in the hot oil, and then add the white wine. Raise the heat to high and use a whisk to pick up all the pieces of crisp chicken from the bottom of the pan. Add the stock, and season with salt and pepper. Add the chicken pieces back into the pot, and when the liquid boils, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and cook for 30 minutes. Remove the lid, and cook uncovered for 5 minutes more. Take the pan off the heat and move the chicken pieces to a serving platter. Whisk 2 T. of crème fraîche into the hot wine and stock, then pour over the chicken. Top with the Chervil Gremolata (recipe follows) and serve with crusty baguette or colorful couscous.

Chervil Gremolata

1 clove garlic, finely chopped
Zest 1/2 orange
Zest 1/2 lemon
2 stems fresh thyme, leaves finely chopped
2 T. chopped fresh chervil
Salt and pepper
2 T. finely chopped preserved lemon (about 1/2 small preserved lemon)

Mix together all the ingredients in a small bowl, then sprinkle on top of the hot Preserved Lemon Citrus Chicken.

Fettuccini with Preserved Lemon and Roasted Garlic

Fettuccini with Preserved Lemon and Roasted Garlic

IMG_05992 heads of garlic
2 tsp. plus 1 T. olive oil
1 lb fettucine
2 T. unsalted butter
1 preserved lemon, rinsed under cold water, pulp and rind finely chopped
1 C. grated Parmesan cheese
3 T. fresh parsley, roughly chopped
Fresh ground pepper

Preheat the oven or a toaster oven to 400 degrees. Chop off the very top of each head of garlic, and remove any excess layers of outer paper. Place each head of garlic on tin foil and drizzle each with a tsp. of olive oil. Wrap in foil and roast for an hour, or until the cloves are very soft. Cool, and squeeze out the garlic. Set aside. Get a large pot of salted water going, and boil the fettucine until tender and just done. In a medium saucepan or skillet, combine the butter and remaining T. of olive oil over medium heat. When the butter melts, add the garlic and preserved lemon. Cook for about a minute, stirring often. Drain the fettucini, then toss with the lemon garlic mixture. Top with the parsley, ground pepper, and Parmesan cheese, and toss again to combine.

Israeli Couscous with Roasted Butternut Squash and Preserved Lemon

Israeli Couscous with Roasted Butternut Squash and Preserved Lemon

DSC_8075a1 preserved lemon
1 1/2 pound butternut squash, peeled and seeded, and cut into 1/4-inch dice
3 T. olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 3/4 C. Israeli couscous or acini di pepe (tiny peppercorn-shaped pasta), about 1 pound
1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
1 C. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
1/2 C. pine nuts, toasted
1/2 C. golden raisins
1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 475°F. Halve lemons and scoop out flesh, keeping both flesh and peel. Cut enough peel into 1/4-inch dice to measure 1/4 C.. Put lemon flesh in a sieve set over a bowl and press with back of a spoon to extract juice. Toss squash with 1 T. oil and salt to taste in a large shallow baking pan and spread in 1 layer. Roast in upper third of oven 15 minutes, or until squash is just tender, and transfer to a large bowl. Cook onion in 1 T. oil in a 10-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until just beginning to turn golden. Add to squash. Cook couscous with cinnamon stick in a large pot of boiling salted water 10 minutes, or until just tender, and drain in a colander (do not rinse). Add couscous to vegetables and toss with 2 T. oil to coat. Add lemon peel and juice, parsley, nuts, raisins, ground cinnamon, and salt to taste. Toss to mix well.

Braised Chicken with Preserved Lemon and Olives

Braised Chicken with Preserved Lemon and Olives

lemoncoq2 sprigs thyme

1 bay leaf

10 peppercorns

Small handful of parsley leaves, chopped, plus a few stems

6 skin-on chicken legs (drumstick and thigh), patted dry

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Olive oil

2 heads garlic, cloves separated and peeled

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons flour

3 cups white wine

2 cups chicken stock or broth

16 Cerignola olives (Picholine olives or other green brine-cured olive can be used)

2 small preserved lemons, cut into â…›-inch thick rounds

Roasted potatoes, boiled egg noodles or toasted slices of country bread rubbed with garlic and oil (optional)

 

Make an herb sachet: Lay the thyme, bay leaf, peppercorns and parsley stems on a piece of cheesecloth or in a tea bag. Tie or seal it up. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Set a wide, heavy braising pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When hot, add just enough oil to coat the bottom of the pan, about 1½ tablespoons. Cook half the chicken, skin-side down, without moving, until brown, about 2 to 3 minutes. Turn and brown the other side. Transfer to a plate. Add more oil as needed. Brown the remaining chicken and transfer to the plate. Add the garlic cloves to the pan and sauté until golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer the garlic to a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of the butter and the flour to the pan and whisk over low heat until golden brown, about 1 minute. Add the wine and bring it to a boil, scraping the pan with a wooden spoon to pull up the brown bits, until reduced by one-third. Add the stock, browned garlic cloves, olives and herb sachet to the pan. Tuck the chicken, skin-side up, into the sauce. Bring to a boil, then simmer, covered, for 35 minutes. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Transfer the chicken to a large baking sheet along with the preserved lemon slices. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the garlic and olives to a bowl. Discard the sachet. If you choose, strain the sauce and return it to the braising pan. Boil the sauce until it thickens, skimming the top from time to time. Whisk in the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and season to taste with salt and pepper. While the sauce reduces, put the chicken and lemons in the oven to brown, about 20 minutes for the chicken, and 25 for the lemons. Transfer the garlic, olives, and browned chicken back into the reduced sauce. Place the preserved lemon slices on the chicken. Sprinkle with some chopped parsley. Serve with egg noodles or roasted potatoes, or on a toasted slice of country bread rubbed with garlic and oil.

 

Red Onion, Parsley and Preserved Lemon Salad

Red Onion, Parsley and Preserved Lemon Salad

3 C. thinly sliced red onions

½ C. roughly chopped Italian parsley

2 T. olive oil

Peel of 1/8 preserved lemon, julienned

½ C. reserved lemon juice

1 large garlic clove, minced

¼ tsp. ground coriander

Ground red pepper

 

In a bowl, cover onions with cold water. Set aside to soak 30 minutes. Drain onions well and pat dry between layers of paper towels. In a bowl, stir together onions and remaining ingredients. Let stand, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon

Cracked Green Olives with Herbs and Preserved Lemon

1 lb. brine-cured cracked green olives

¼ C. chopped cilantro

3 T. chopped mint

Peel of ½ preserved lemon, julienned

3 T. preserved lemon juice

2 T. olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

¼ tsp. ground coriander

Red pepper flakes, to taste

 

In a bowl, cover olives with cold water and soak 4 hours to remove excess salt. Drain well. In a bowl, stir together olives and remaining ingredients. Marinate, covered and chilled, at least 6 hours or overnight. Olives may be prepared 1 week ahead. Serve at room temperature.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Couscous Risotto with Butternut Squash and Preserved Lemon

Couscous Risotto with Butternut Squash and Preserved Lemon

israeli-couscous-with-butternut-squash-and-preserved-lemon1 1/2 lb. butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch dice

4 T. melted, unsalted butter

1 1/2 C. white onion, finely diced

2 T. garlic, finely chopped

2 tsp. whole cumin seed

2 C. Israeli couscous

1/2 C. dry white wine

4 C. rich vegetable or chicken stock, heated to simmering

1/2 C. golden raisins

1/2 C. toasted pine nuts

1/2 C. parsley, chopped

2 T. fresh mint, chopped

1 C. Pecorino cheese, freshly grated

1/3 C. preserved lemons, rinsed, diced and preserved, pulp discarded

Freshly grated nutmeg

Salt and freshly ground pepper

 

Deep-fried sweet potato, thinly sliced (optional)

Mint sprigs

 

Toss the squash in a large shallow roasting pan with 2 T. of the butter and season lightly with salt, pepper and a grating or two of nutmeg. Spread in one layer and roast in a preheated 475°F oven for 18-20 minutes or until squash is just tender and lightly browned. Set aside.  In a large deep saucepan sauté the onions, garlic and cumin over moderate heat in the remaining butter until softened but not brown. Add the couscous and sauté for a minute or two more to lightly toast. Add the wine, cinnamon stick and a C. or so of the broth and stir occasionally until most of the liquid is absorbed. Add another C. or so of stock and stir until liquid is again absorbed. Continue adding broth in this manner until couscous is just tender but still al dente. Stir in the raisins, pine nuts, parsley, mint, cheese and preserved lemon. Serve immediately garnished with fried sweet potato and mint.

 

Red Pepper Sauce

 

1 1/4 C. fresh red bell pepper juice (3­4 large red bell peppers)

3-4 T. softened, unsweetened butter

Cayenne pepper, salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

 

Warm the juice in a small saucepan and season to taste with the cayenne, salt and pepper. With a hand held blender process the butter into the juice until its fully incorporated and foamy. Place the Couscous above in the center of warm shallow bowls and ring with the sauce. Serve immediately.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Preserved Lemon Dressing

Preserved Lemon Dressing

1 preserved lemon

7 T. olive oil

¼ tsp. ground cumin

¼ tsp. coarsely ground pepper

 

Cut lemon in half. Roughly chop one half and place in blender. With a spoon, remove the pulp from the remaining half and add the pulp to the blender. Return the remaining peel to the jar for another use. Add olive oil, cumin and pepper to blender and process until smooth.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Preserved Lemons with Lavender

Preserved Lemons with Lavender

1 T. dried lavender buds

3 tsp. kosher salt, divided

1/2 C. freshly squeezed lemon juice, plus more for filling the jar

2 lemons, scrubbed well

2 tsp. kosher salt

 

Have ready a clean 1-pint jar.  Make lavender water by placing 1/2 C. water, lavender buds, 1 tsp. salt and 1/2 C. lemon juice in a pan. Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 20 to 30 minutes. Keep warm.  In the meantime, quarter lemons lengthwise but not all the way through. (The lemon quarters should be attached at one end.) Sprinkle 1 tsp. salt over the middle of each lemon. Place both lemons in the 1-pint jar. Pour in hot lavender water; add enough fresh lemon juice to fill the jar.  Cover tightly. Turn jar daily to ensure even preservation. Lemons are ready when they are soft. Lemons will be ready to use in a few weeks and will keep for several months.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Fish with Green Olives & Preserved Lemons

Fish with Green Olives & Preserved Lemons

1 preserved lemon, chopped

2 tomatoes, chopped

1 onion, chopped

4 T. chopped cilantro

3/4 C. pitted green olives, cut in half

3 lbs. fish fillets, such as snapper, halibut or cod

2 cloves garlic, peeled

1 tsp. coarse sea salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1/2 tsp. sweet paprika

1/2 tsp. saffron threads

1/2 tsp. hot water

 

Mix together the lemon, tomatoes, onion, cilantro and olives. Spread a small amount of the mixture on the bottom of a baking dish. Rub the fish fillets with the garlic, and sprinkle with the salt and pepper. Place in the baking dish. Surround and cover the fish with the remaining lemon mixture.   Dissolve the paprika and saffron in the hot water, and pour over the fish. Roast the fish for 20 minutes in a preheated 350-degree oven. Serve warm with rice or couscous.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Striped Bass with Olive, Caper, and Lemon Salsa

Striped Bass with Olive, Caper, and Lemon Salsa

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 tomato, cored, seeded, and diced

4 oz. pitted Kalamata olives, or similar brine-cured olives, diced (about 1/2 C.)

1 small preserved lemon, pulp removed, diced (about 2 T.), or 1 T. freshly grated lemon zest

2 T. capers, rinsed and coarsely chopped

2 T. chopped fresh parsley

2 T. freshly squeezed lemon juice

2 T. olive oil

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

 

2 T. unsalted butter

2 T. vegetable oil

4 striped bass filets, about 6 oz. each, skin removed

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1/3 C. all-purpose flour, for coating

 

Combine the salsa ingredients in a medium bowl. Set aside at room temperature. In a large skillet, melt the butter with the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until almost smoking. Season fish on both sides with salt and pepper. Place the flour on a large plate, and just before sautéing, turn the filets in the flour to coat. Shake off the excess flour and add filets to skillet. Cook until golden brown and firm to the touch, about 5 minutes per side. Serve with a heaping spoonful of the salsa. Serve any remaining salsa on the side.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Preserved Lemons with Cardamom and Bay Leaves

Preserved Lemons with Cardamom and Bay Leaves

6 lemons

½ C. kosher salt

1 T. cardamom pods

3 bay leaves

1 C. lemon juice or more, if needed

 

Cut lemons in quarters lengthwise, leaving stem end attached. Rub the flesh with some of the salt. Place 1 T. salt in bottom of 1-quart glass jar. Place lemons in the jar, alternating with remaining salt, cardamom pods and bay leaves. Pour in enough juice to cover the lemons. Cover tightly. Let stand about 3 weeks, shaking the jar daily to redistribute salt.  Preserved lemons will keep in the refrigerator up to about 6 months as long as they are covered with lemon juice.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Prawn and Lemon Relish

Prawn and Lemon Relish

1 T. extra virgin olive oil

6 large prawn, peeled, and, deveined

1/4 C. tomato, concasse

1/4 C. diced preserved lemon, or Lumiere reversion, see recipe for directions

2 T. capers, rinsed

3 tsp. tarragon, finely, chopped

3 tsp. flat-leaf parsley, finely, chopped

1/2 tsp. sherry vinegar

1/2 tsp. black olive tapenade

 

In a sauté pan over medium-high heat add 1 T. Olive Oil. Add prawns, seasoned with salt and white pepper, cook for one to two minutes until they turn pink and golden brown. Remove from heat and place prawns on a plate to cool. In a bowl, combine tomato, lemon, capers, olives, tarragon, parsley, sherry vinegar and olive oil. Roughly cut cooled prawns and add prawns and juice to mixture. Refrigerate until ready to use.  Add tapenade to mixture at very end, just before serving. Mix well.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Preserved Lemon Relish

Preserved Lemon Relish

2 preserved lemons, rinsed and finely chopped

6 green onions, sliced

½ C. chopped parsley

3 T. olive oil

juice of ½ fresh lemon

coarsely ground pepper, to taste

 

In a bowl, combine all ingredients. Serve over grilled fish or chicken or lamb.

 

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Roasted Kale with Preserved Lemons

Roasted Kale with Preserved Lemons

 

1 1/4 pounds dinosaur or curly green kale (about 2 bunches), rinsed

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper

3 tablespoons chopped preserved lemons (see notes) or 1 tablespoon slivered lemon peel

 

Tear kale leaves away from tough center stems; discard stems. Cut kale into 2-inch pieces and place in a large bowl. Add oil and sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper; mix well to coat. Spoon into a 9- by 13-inch baking dish (kale will fill dish). Bake in a 450° regular or convection oven, stirring occasionally, until top pieces of kale are crisp and remaining are tender to bite, 20 to 25 minutes. Stir in preserved lemons or lemon peel and spoon into a bowl. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Tomato Salad with Avocado and Preserved Lemons

Tomato Salad with Avocado and Preserved Lemons

4 C. diced plum tomato (about 2 lb.)
1 T. minced Quick Preserved Lemons
2 tsp. fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp. salt
1 diced peeled avocado
2 T. chopped fresh parsley

Combine first 5 ingredients. Sprinkle with parsley.
Note: Nutritional analysis includes Quick Preserved Lemons.

Yield: 8 servings
Calories: 60
Fat: 4.2g
Fiber: 2.4g

Quick Preserved Lemons

Quick Preserved Lemons

1 C. water
2 T. kosher salt
2 lemons, washed and quartered

Combine water and salt in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Add lemons; cook 30 minutes or until liquid is reduced to 1/2 C. and lemon rind is tender. Remove from heat; cool to room temperature. Preserving lemons typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to acquire the right consistency and flavor. However, this quick method bypasses the lengthy preservation time and is a great substitute for the real thing. Use the rind to accent a variety of dishes, from seafood to vegetable stir-fries. Mash the pulp in a sauce or a stew, or use it to baste chicken or lamb. These can be made several days ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To distribute the flavor, chop before adding to a dish.

Yield: 1/2 C.
Serving Size: 1 T.
Calories: 2
Fat: 0
Fiber: 1.2g