4 Ways To Get More From Your Lemons

Lemons are a versatile fruit and every part of the lemon can be used in a multitude of ways. From adding zest to your baking to preserving lemons for future use, here are four ideas for when life gives you lemons.

1. LEMON ZEST SUGAR

Take your baking to the next level with lemon zest sugar.

Combine the zest of two lemons with one cup of sugar and mix thoroughly. Store the lemon zest sugar in an airtight jar, allowing the flavours to infuse. This delightful ingredient will add a zesty twist to your cakes, goes great on top of your porridge, and anything else that needs a sweet, zesty kick.

_{2. FREEZE LEMON SLICES TO INFUSE YOUR DRINKS}

Keep your drinks cool and infused with lemon by freezing individual lemon slices. This simple trick enhances the lemony taste but is also a great way to use those odd bits of lemon that are sometimes forgotten in the fridge. Here's how you do it:

• Wash and slice the lemons
• Place the lemon slices on a plate, ensuring they don't overlap to prevent them sticking together
• Put the plate in the freezer and allow the slices to freeze completely.
• Once frozen, transfer the lemon slices to an airtight container and keep in the freezer for easy access.

Now you can enjoy chilled drinks with the added zing of frozen lemon slices whenever you desire. Gin & Tonic anyone?

_{3. PRESERVED LEMONS}

Preserved lemons are commonly found in Middle Eastern cuisine and are a great addition to many savoury meals. They bring a unique tangy flavour and a touch of complexity to soups, stews, curries, roasted vegetables, and salads. Here's how you make them:

• Slice each lemon into quarters, stopping three-quarters of the way down to keep the lemon intact
• Spoon one teaspoon of salt inside each lemon
• Place the lemons, cut side down, into a clean jar
• Use the back of a wooden spoon to press down on the lemons, encouraging the juice to squeeze out. Repeat until all the lemons are in the jar.
• Ensure the lemons are fully submerged by covering them with extra lemon juice and adding a teaspoon of salt at the top.
• Close the lid and let the jar sit at room temperature for three days. Afterwards, transfer it to the refrigerator.
• The preserved lemons will be ready to use in approximately three weeks. Remember to turn the jar upside down every few days.
• Stored in the fridge, preserved lemons can last up to six months.

4. LEMON JUICE

Juice the lemons and freeze the juice in ice cube trays in the freezer. This way you will always have lemon juice for your next recipe, in easy to portion sizes. These are great at times of the year when lemons aren't as abundant.

So squeeze the day and make the most out of your lumpy lemons.