Saffron Preserved Lemons

Golden alchemy in a jar — bright, salty, and floral. These lemons infuse any dish with sunshine through the quiet depth of saffron. A simple pantry ritual for the start of a new year.

Ingredients

5 small organic lemons, preferably very fresh and unwaxed, chosen for their bright citrus flavor, with meyer lemons being ideal and especially recommended if they are available

2 additional lemons, freshly juiced just before use, with the extracted juice used for topping off the mixture and filling the jar completely to the top

¼ cup of fine sea salt, or as much as needed, used to thoroughly coat, cure, and preserve the lemons throughout the process

2 generous pinches of saffron threads, included for their delicate color, subtle aroma, and gentle depth of flavor of the saffron preserved lemons

2 tablespoons of hot water, used specifically to steep the saffron and help release its color and fragrance

Optional: ½ teaspoon of fennel seeds, added for a mild, aromatic layer that provides extra depth without overpowering the lemons

Instructions

Sterilize the jar, wash a 16-oz glass jar with hot, soapy water, rinse well, and dry completely

Prepare the saffron, steep saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water for 5–10 minutes, until golden and fragrant

Prep the lemons, wash lemons thoroughly. Cut lengthwise into quarters, keeping them attached at the base

Salt + stuff, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of salt inside each lemon, gently opening them. Pack tightly into the jar, adding more salt and optional aromatics as you layer

Pour + press, add saffron water and enough fresh lemon juice to fully submerge the lemons. Press down to remove air pockets

Seal + ferment, seal tightly and ferment at room temperature for 3-4 weeks, turning the jar every few days

To use, refrigerate after fermenting. Finely chop the peel only and use in dressings, sauces, soups, or grain bowls