Are you also unaware of the different types of salts? Well, then this article is for you. For years everyone has known about salt, a simple ingredient that is highly important to develop the taste of any dish. Without salt, no dish turns out to be delicious. But here comes a bit of a twist, salt also has various types! There are almost 12 types of salts available around the world, from kosher to rock salt.
Do not worry, solve your confusion by starting simple and knowing the difference between kosher salt and sea salt. At first glance, kosher salt and sea salt might appear similar. But they are a bit different, you have likely heard enough cooks wax poetic about their preferences.
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So, what exactly is the difference between kosher salt and sea salt? And how do you use each? Here is everything you need to know about kosher salt and sea salt, including whether you can substitute one for the other.
What Is Kosher Salt?
Kosher salt is a coarse salt that has much larger grains than traditional table salt. The kosher label does not mean that the salt is kosher but instead refers to the process of making meat kosher, called kashering. One of the kosher dietary guidelines forbids eating meat with blood in it. To ensure this, meat is coated in salt to help pull out any excess blood. The larger grain salt does this better than typical table salt, and so the name was born.
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Fine-grain table salt is not “pure” salt. It is often iodised, meaning that salts of the element Iodine are added to it. Commercially processed salt also has something called an anti-caking agent. This prevents the salt from getting lumpy and ensures a smooth pour. There can even be small amounts of dextrose in salt. Sugar in salt? Kosher salt tends to avoid these additives, making it the “pure stuff.” It’s the preferred salt for most chefs.
What Is Sea Salt?
Sea salt is identifiable by its large, flaky, and coarse texture. Like kosher salt, it tends to avoid iodine and other additives, which means it’s also the “pure stuff.” Companies like Morton’s also make a fine version of sea salt, but the big flakes are the classic archetype.
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Due to its texture, sea salt is often used differently than other salts. It would seem a waste to use it in pasta water, however, as a finishing garnish, it’s delightful. It enhances the flavour of meat when sprinkled atop it just before eating, and it famously is an excellent addition to desserts like chocolate chip cookies.
What is the Difference Between Sea Salt and Kosher Salt?
Formation
Sea salt is formed through the evaporation of seawater, a process that occurs naturally via solar evaporation or mechanically in salt pans. This natural process enriches sea salt with trace minerals, resulting in varying flavours influenced by its source region. In contrast, Kosher salt is obtained from underground salt deposits through mining methods. This distinction in origin often translates into differences in flavour and texture, with sea salt generally appreciated for its nuanced flavour profile owing to its mineral content.
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Price
A significant contrast between sea salt and Kosher salt lies in their pricing. Sea salt tends to be priced higher due to the labour-intensive evaporation process and the limited availability of salt pans or harvesting areas. Consequently, consumers may use sea salt more sparingly, reserving it for special occasions or as a final touch to elevate the flavour and presentation of dishes. Conversely, Kosher salt, being more budget-friendly, is commonly used in everyday cooking and recipe preparation.
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The discrepancy in cost influences how sea salt and Kosher salt are used in recipes. While both salts are suitable for cooking, the higher price of sea salt often relegates it to a supplementary role, typically employed as a finishing seasoning or garnish to enhance flavour and aesthetics. In contrast, Kosher salt's affordability and versatility make it a more common choice for tasks such as salting pasta water, seasoning meats, or coating vegetables before roasting.
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Cultural Significance
Kosher salt and sea salt hold significant roles, each lending its unique flavours and textures to a wide array of dishes. From Mediterranean cuisines to Asian fare, these salts are deeply ingrained in cultural practices and historical legacies. Sea salt, originating from coastal regions, is revered for its natural essence and rich mineral composition. For centuries, coastal communities have cherished sea salt as a culinary staple, enhancing the taste of seafood and adding depth to local specialities. Its versatility extends far beyond coastal areas, finding its way into salads, meats, and even desserts.