Lemon juice is a versatile ingredient. It can add a tangy flavor to drinks and meals, and it’s packed with vitamin C. But how do you keep lemon juice fresh once you’ve squeezed it? Here are several methods to preserve lemon juice, so you always have it on hand when you need it.
Short-Term Storage
Airtight Containers For short-term storage, use airtight containers, preferably glass, as glass doesn’t interact with the acid in lemon juice and alter the taste. Ensure the container is clean and dry to prevent bacterial growth. Lemon juice stored this way can last for about 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator.
Bowls Using bowls to store lemon juice is not recommended for long-term storage.
Long-Term Storage
Freezing in Ice Cube Trays For longer preservation, freezing lemon juice in ice cube trays is a great option. Pour the juice into the trays and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cubes into a freezer-safe airtight container or zip lock bag. This method can extend the life of your lemon juice for up to 4 months. The cubes are conveniently portioned for cooking, baking, or adding to drinks.
Water Bath Canning Using the water bath canning technique is another method for preserving lemon juice for a longer duration.
Other Preservation Methods
Salt Trick Mixing salt with lemon juice can also help preserve it. Use a ratio of 2:1 (1/2 teaspoon of salt per 1/4 cup of lemon juice).
Preserved Lemons You can also preserve whole lemons using salt. This method involves soaking lemons in kosher salt and a little sugar, then refrigerating them overnight. The next day, transfer the lemons and their juices to a sterilized canning jar, adding peppercorns, bay leaf, and enough fresh lemon juice to cover the lemons. Seal and refrigerate for 3 weeks to 1 month before consuming. Salt-preserved lemons can last up to 6 months in the fridge.
Step-by-Step Lemon Juice Recipe
Here’s a simple recipe to make lemon juice:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of water
- 1 fresh lemon
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 3-4 ice cubes
- A pinch of salt
Equipment:
- Squeezer
- Glass
Instructions:
- Cut the lemon into two equal halves.
- Squeeze the lemon juice into a glass using a squeezer.
- Add sugar, salt, and water.
- Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Serve cool with ice cubes.
Tip: For weight loss and glowing skin, take lemon juice with warm water and honey in the morning.
How to Make Preserved Lemons
Here’s how to make preserved lemons:
Ingredients:
- 8 large lemons
- ½ cup kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons peppercorns
- 4 to 5 dry bay leaves
- Fresh lemon juice of 7 to 8 lemons (about 2 1/2 cups)
Instructions:
- Cut about 1/4-inch off the top and bottom of the lemons. Cut each lemon into quarters, but not all the way through, so they remain connected at the bottom.
- In a large bowl, toss the lemons with salt and sugar. Open the lemons and stuff them with the kosher salt and sugar mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to 24 hours. The lemons will release some juice.
- Transfer the lemons and their juices to a large sterilized canning jar. Press them firmly into the jar. Add the peppercorns and bay leaves. Top with fresh lemon juice to submerge the lemons.
- Seal the jar and store in the fridge for 3 weeks to 1 month before consuming.
Preserved lemons will have a mellow but intense flavor, and their flesh and skins are tender and edible.
Tips and Tricks
- Ensure all containers are thoroughly cleaned and dried before storing lemon juice.
- When freezing lemon juice, use ice cube trays for convenient portioning.
- Properly stored salt-preserved lemons can last up to 6 months in the fridge.
- Use preserved lemons in stews, soups, and with fish for a burst of flavor.
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Benefits of Lemon Juice
Lemon juice offers many benefits:
- Vitamin C: Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system.
- Digestive Aid: It aids in digestion.
- Weight Loss: Lemon juice with warm water and honey can help in weight loss.
- Skin Health: It promotes glowing skin.
- Kidney Stone Prevention: Lemon juice can help prevent kidney stones.
Conclusion
Preserving squeezed lemon juice is simple. Whether you choose short-term refrigeration, long-term freezing, or salt-preserving, you can ensure that you always have this valuable ingredient on hand.