Dried preserved lemons are a versatile ingredient, especially potent in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, adding a unique tangy, salty, and intensely lemony flavor. You can use them in a variety of dishes.
Understanding Preserved Lemons
Preserved lemons are lemons that have been pickled in a brine of salt and their own juice. This process softens the rind and intensifies the lemon flavor. When dried, preserved lemons become even more concentrated in flavor.
Ways to Use Dried Preserved Lemons
Dried preserved lemons can be used similarly to their non-dried counterparts, but often require rehydration or pulverization due to their texture. According to the reference, they are particularly well-suited for Mediterranean dishes, but can be used anywhere you want to add lemon. Here's a breakdown:
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Reconstitution:
- Soak dried preserved lemon pieces in warm water for about 15-30 minutes to soften them before using. This will make them easier to chop or incorporate into dishes.
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Flavor Enhancer:
- Mediterranean Dishes: Dried preserved lemons work "beautifully with any classic Mediterranean dishes such as tagine, cous cous, grilled seafood and chicken".
- Salads: Add small pieces to green salads or grain salads for a bright, salty, and lemony kick.
- Sauces and Dressings: Grind the dried peel into a powder and add it to sauces and dressings. This provides intense flavor without adding moisture.
- Dips: Finely mince the dried peel and stir it into dips like hummus or baba ghanoush.
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Cooking Applications:
- Tagines and Stews: Add chopped or ground preserved lemon to tagines, stews, and braises for depth of flavor.
- Grilled Meats and Fish: Rub a paste made from ground preserved lemon, herbs, and spices onto grilled chicken, fish, or lamb.
- Rice and Grains: Add small pieces to rice pilafs or other grain dishes for a burst of citrus.
Usage Tips:
- Rinse: Even after drying, preserved lemons can retain a lot of salt. Rinse the pieces before using, especially if you are salt-sensitive.
- Moderation: Start with a small amount, as the flavor is intense. You can always add more.
- Storage: Store dried preserved lemons in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain their flavor and quality.
