Instructions: * Note: The Meyer lemon is a cross between a mandarin orange and a lemon, so its sweeter and less acidic than the standard lemon.

Sterilize jars: Using rubber-coated canning tongs, place jars in large pot fitted with a rack in the bottom, making certain that the jars do not touch. Cover with at least 2 inches of water. Bring water to a boil, and boil jars for 10 minutes. Remove, and place upside down on a clean kitchen towel to dry completely. Wash rubber rings in hot, soapy water, and place on kitchen towel to dry. Do not discard water.

Cut off and discard lemon ends. Slice lemons in half lengthwise. Cut halves crosswise into very thin slices, including peel, pith, and seeds.

Heat oven to 100 degrees. Spread sugar in a baking dish, and place in oven. Heating the sugar first to help it dissolve more quickly in the marmalade and to keep the temperature of the fruit more constant.

In a 10- to 12-quart stockpot, combine lemons, pears, herbs, or spices (if using), and 5 cups water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to medium-low, keeping at a gentle boil. Cook until lemons are tender, about 1 hour.

Add warmed sugar. Return to a full rolling boil (one that cannot be stirred down), about 10 minutes. Remove seeds that float to the top. Remove from heat.

Use a liquid measuring cup to pour marmalade into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4-inch space at top. Wipe rim of jar clean. Place rubber ring on rim of jar, and fasten top (or follow manufacturers instructions). Never re-use lids, the seals may not work a second time.

Using canning tongs, return jars to pot used to sterilize jars. Make certain that the jars are covered by at least 2 inches of water and that they are not touching one another. Bring water to a boil, and boil for 10 minutes. Remove from water with canning tongs.

Allow marmalade to cool completely. Store unopened jars in a cool dry place for up to one year and unsealed jars in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks.

This recipe yields 10 sixteen-ounce jars.

Yield: 10 pints

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