Meyer Lemon "Jam"

This recipe was inspired by the delicious lemon-oregano jam served at a New York City restaurant. Try a dollop on poached or grilled fish or chicken, or as a dip for steamed asparagus or artichokes.

Meyer Lemon
Meyer Lemon "Jam"

This recipe was inspired by the delicious lemon-oregano jam served at a New York City restaurant. Try a dollop on poached or grilled fish or chicken, or as a dip for steamed asparagus or artichokes.

  • Preparing Time: -
  • Total Time: -
  • Served Person: Makes about 1/2 cup
  • Carbohydrate 12 g(4%)
  • Fat 14 g(21%)
  • Fiber 2 g(7%)
  • Protein 1 g(1%)
  • Saturated Fat 2 g(9%)
  • Sodium 2 mg(0%)
  • Calories 161

Step-by-step

  • Remove zest from lemons with a vegetable peeler.
  • Remove any white pith from zest and lemon with a sharp knife.
  • Blanch zest only in boiling water for 5 minutes.
  • Cut peeled lemons into quarters and discard seeds.
  • Puree zest, lemons, sugar, and water in a blender until smooth.
  • With motor running, add oil in a slow stream, blending until "jam" is thick, and season with salt.
  • Transfer to a bowl and chill, covered, for 8 hours to allow flavors to mellow.

A Burst of Sunshine: My Meyer Lemon "Jam" Adventure

The kitchen, my sanctuary. It's where I escape the daily grind, the emails, the deadlines. Here, amidst the comforting scent of simmering spices and the rhythmic chop of a knife, I find peace. This recipe, this Meyer lemon "jam," is a perfect example of that kind of kitchen magic. It’s a simple recipe, elegant in its simplicity, but bursting with flavor – a testament to the power of fresh, high-quality ingredients.

I first encountered something similar to this Meyer lemon "jam" during a trip to Italy. I was wandering through a small, sun-drenched village market, overwhelmed by the vibrant colours and intoxicating aromas. A kindly old woman, her hands gnarled but nimble, offered me a small taste of a lemon preserve – tart, bright, and utterly addictive. It wasn't quite a jam, not in the traditional sense, but it possessed a similar spreadable consistency, a delightful balance of sweet and tangy. It sparked an inspiration, a desire to recreate that burst of sunshine in my own kitchen.

This recipe isn't just about replicating a taste; it's about capturing a feeling, a moment. It’s about the quiet satisfaction of transforming humble lemons into something extraordinary. It's the kind of recipe that's both impressive and easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The process is meditative, almost therapeutic. The rhythmic whir of the blender, the satisfying thud of the knife as it slices through the lemon peel – these are the sounds of culinary creation. And the result? A bright, zesty spread that elevates everything it touches.

I like to serve it with grilled fish, the sweetness of the lemon cutting through the richness of the fish. A dollop atop poached chicken creates a symphony of flavors. It also works beautifully as a dip for steamed vegetables, adding a vibrant burst of citrus to the more delicate flavors. And let's not forget the simple pleasure of spreading it on toasted bread, a quick and effortless treat that brightens even the most mundane of mornings.

This Meyer lemon "jam" is more than just a recipe; it's a journey. A journey from the sun-drenched groves where the lemons grow to the cozy comfort of my kitchen, a transformation from simple ingredients to a culinary masterpiece. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients, fresh flavors, and a little bit of kitchen magic.

Beyond its culinary applications, making this jam is a lovely way to connect with the seasons. The bright, sunny flavor of Meyer lemons perfectly embodies the feeling of spring, a reminder of warmth and renewal. The vibrant color is a feast for the eyes, just as the taste is a feast for the palate. It's a reminder that even the simplest things in life can bring immense joy. This recipe isn't about following instructions; it's about letting your creativity flow, about experimenting with flavors and finding your own unique twist. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and let the magic begin.

The best part? The leftovers (if there are any!) keep well in the refrigerator, allowing you to savor the taste of sunshine long after the last lemon has been squeezed. This isn't just a recipe; it's an invitation to experience the joy of creating something beautiful, something delicious, something truly your own.

So, embrace the sunshine, embrace the zest, and embrace the joy of making this simple, yet extraordinary, Meyer lemon "jam". It's a recipe that will transport you to sun-drenched shores, even if only for a moment. And isn't that what cooking is all about? Creating moments of happiness, one delicious bite at a time.