Lemon Confit

Directions

1. 1
   Cut the lemons in half; squeeze the juice and reserve it for another use.
2. 2
   Put the squeezed lemon halves in a large saucepan and add the bay leaves, peppercorns, 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, the white wine, and salt. Add enough water to completely cover the lemons and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and cook gently over medium-low heat until the lemon peel is tender, about 25 minutes. Remove from the heat and allow to cool in the liquid.
3. 3
   Drain the lemons and tear the peel into rough strips about 1 inch wide. Place a strip of lemon peel skin side down on the work surface and, using a sharp paring knife, scrape away every bit of the white pith, leaving only the yellow zest. Repeat with the remaining peel.
4. 4
   Put the strips of lemon zest in a small container ond cover completely with olive oil. The confit will keep tightly covered in the refrigerator for at least a week.