Lemon confit is a culinary marvel—a tangy, sweet, and slightly savory creation that transforms ordinary lemons into a versatile ingredient for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re drizzling it over roasted meats, adding it to a salad, or incorporating it into desserts, lemon confit brings a burst of flavor that’s perfect for any meal. While the traditional process of making confit involves slow cooking, the beauty of this recipe is that you can make it in just one hour, without sacrificing any of the depth or richness in flavor. Ready to bring some zesty goodness into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this easy, yet elegant recipe for a delicious lemon confit.
Ingredients:
- 4 large lemons
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, smashed
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or rosemary for a more aromatic flavor)
Equipment:
- A sharp knife
- A medium-sized saucepan or small skillet
- A jar or airtight container for storing
Step 1: Prepare the Lemons
Begin by selecting firm, ripe lemons with vibrant skin. Organic lemons are ideal since you’ll be using both the peel and the pulp. Start by slicing the lemons into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick. Remove any seeds as you go. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can blanch the lemon slices by placing them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to remove some of the bitterness. This step is optional but helps soften the lemon’s tanginess.
Step 2: Infuse the Oil and Sweetener
In a medium-sized saucepan, pour in the olive oil, honey, and sugar (if using). Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the honey and sugar dissolve completely. The goal is to gently infuse the oil with a slight sweetness without allowing it to boil. Add the smashed garlic cloves and the fresh thyme to the pot. The aromatics will infuse the oil, creating a fragrant base for the confit.
Step 3: Add the Lemons to the Pan
Once the oil mixture is heated through and infused with the herbs and garlic, add the lemon slices to the pan. Arrange the slices in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt and cracked black pepper to season. Allow the lemons to cook gently over low heat for about 40-45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the slices from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 4: Adjust the Flavors
Taste the confit as it cooks. The balance between sweetness, acidity, and saltiness is key. If you want it to be sweeter, add a little more honey or sugar. If you prefer a bolder, saltier flavor, adjust the salt accordingly. Feel free to add an extra sprig of thyme for more herbal notes or a dash of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Once the lemon slices have softened and turned golden, and the oil has thickened slightly, remove the pan from the heat. Let the confit cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Transfer the lemon slices and oil into an airtight jar or container. Be sure the lemons are completely submerged in the oil to preserve their freshness and flavor. Store the confit in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to two weeks.
How to Use Lemon Confit
Now that you’ve made your own lemon confit, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to help you incorporate this flavorful treat into your meals:
- Roasted Meats: Drizzle lemon confit over roasted chicken, lamb, or fish for a burst of flavor.
- Salads: Chop the lemon confit and toss it with fresh greens, arugula, and a vinaigrette for a refreshing citrusy twist.
- Pasta Dishes: Add a spoonful of confit to pasta for a zesty, savory component.
- Baked Goods: Use it in cakes or muffins to create a fragrant lemony note.
- Charcuterie Boards: Pair lemon confit with cheeses, olives, and cured meats for an elevated appetizer.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Lemon confit is incredibly versatile and packs a punch of flavor, but it’s also remarkably easy to make. By following this one-hour recipe, you’ll unlock a whole new dimension of flavor from lemons that can be used in countless culinary applications. The addition of olive oil gives it a silky texture, while the honey and salt provide a perfect balance of sweetness and savoriness. Best of all, this is a recipe you can prepare quickly, making it perfect for when you’re craving something that feels gourmet but doesn’t take all day to prepare.
Whether you’re a home cook looking to expand your recipe repertoire or simply someone who loves experimenting with new ingredients, lemon confit will soon become one of your go-to pantry staples
