Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Quick Lemon Puree is simple to prepare but packed with vibrant, refreshing citrus flavor. The slow simmering process softens the lemon rinds, creating a smooth, spreadable texture that’s perfect for a variety of savory dishes. Whether used as a marinade, sauce, or ingredient in soups and stews, this puree adds a bright, zesty punch to your cooking. Plus, it can be easily customized with aromatic herbs or spices like rosemary, thyme, or even chilis, making it incredibly versatile.
Ingredients
- Citrus Base:
- 3 large lemons
- 60 ml fresh lemon juice (approximately 3 large lemons)
- 120 ml water
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- Optional Aromatics:
- Bay leaves, curry leaves, kaffir lime leaves, peppercorns, savory, rosemary, thyme, or chilis
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Lemons: Thoroughly wash the lemons to remove any waxy residue. Trim off the ends and discard them. Cut the lemons into 0.6 cm (¼ inch) slices and remove all seeds.
- Simmer the Lemons: Combine the sliced lemons, lemon juice, water, sea salt, and any optional herbs you’d like to add in a small saucepan. Cover the pan and simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, until the rinds become tender and translucent. Check the mixture frequently to ensure the liquid doesn’t evaporate, and add more water or lemon juice if needed.
- Cool the Mixture: Once the lemons are tender, remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
- Blend the Puree: If any herbs were added, remove them. Transfer the cooled mixture to a blender and puree until smooth and thick, with a consistency similar to baby food. You can adjust the thickness by adding water or lemon juice, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Store: Transfer the finished lemon puree to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 8 servings (approximately 250 ml or 1 cup of lemon puree)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Lime Puree: For a different citrus flavor, substitute the lemons with limes to make a lime puree.
- Spicy Lemon Puree: Add chilis or red pepper flakes to the mixture while simmering for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or savory for unique flavor profiles.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the lemon puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze the puree in portions for easy use later.
- Reheating: This puree is typically used cold or at room temperature, but you can gently heat it in a saucepan if desired.
FAQs
Can I use this lemon puree in desserts?
While this recipe is intended for savory dishes, you can use the puree in desserts that benefit from a bright, citrus flavor, such as in a glaze or as part of a fruit salad dressing.
Can I make this puree without using any herbs?
Absolutely! The basic lemon and salt mixture is flavorful on its own. Herbs are optional and can be added for extra depth of flavor, but the puree will be delicious without them.
How do I adjust the thickness of the puree?
If the puree is too thick, simply add a teaspoon of water or lemon juice at a time to achieve your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, blend a little longer or add more lemon slices and re-simmer.
Can I use the puree as a marinade?
Yes, the lemon puree makes a great marinade for seafood, chicken, and vegetables. Simply mix it with some olive oil and additional spices for a flavorful base.
How long can I keep this puree in the freezer?
The lemon puree can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just portion it into small containers or ice cube trays for easy use whenever needed.
Conclusion
Quick Lemon Puree is a vibrant and versatile condiment that adds an exciting citrus boost to any savory dish. With minimal effort and just a few ingredients, you can create a rich, smooth puree that’s perfect for salads, marinades, sauces, or roasted vegetables. Customize it with your favorite herbs and spices, and store it for up to two weeks to always have a burst of bright lemon flavor on hand. Whether used for a fresh marinade or a tangy finishing touch, this easy-to-make puree will become a staple in your kitchen.
Quick Lemon Puree: A Vibrant, Versatile Citrus Base for Your Dishes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 batch (approximately 250 ml)
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmering, Blending
- Cuisine: French
Description
Quick Lemon Puree is a vibrant, citrus-infused puree made from whole lemons, water, and sea salt. It adds a tangy, refreshing flavor to a variety of savory dishes, such as salads, marinades, and roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Citrus Base:
3 large lemons
60 ml fresh lemon juice (approximately 3 large lemons)
120 ml water
1 tablespoon sea salt
Optional Aromatics:
Bay leaves, curry leaves, kaffir lime leaves, peppercorns, savory, rosemary, thyme, or chilis
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemons: Wash the lemons thoroughly to remove any waxy residue. Trim off the ends and discard them. Cut the lemons into 0.6 cm (¼ inch) slices and remove all seeds.
- Simmer the Lemons: Combine the sliced lemons, lemon juice, water, sea salt, and any optional herbs in a small saucepan. Cover the pan and simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, until the rinds become tender and translucent. Check the mixture frequently to ensure the liquid doesn’t evaporate, and add more water or lemon juice if needed.
- Cool the Mixture: Once the lemons are tender, remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.
- Blend the Puree: If any herbs were added, remove them. Transfer the cooled mixture to a blender and puree until smooth and thick, with a consistency similar to baby food. Adjust the thickness by adding water or lemon juice one teaspoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Store: Transfer the finished lemon puree to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it.
Notes
For a lime twist, substitute lemons with limes for a lime puree variation.
Spicy Lemon Puree: Add chilis or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Herb variations like rosemary or thyme can be added for different flavor profiles.
For thicker puree, blend a little longer or add more lemon slices and re-simmer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 15
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
