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SALT is one of the most essential ingredients in cooking, yet it is often overlooked. The humble salt crystal, in all its forms, has the power to transform dishes from ordinary to extraordinary. Different salts have unique flavours, textures, mineral compositions and colours that can elevate any dish. For centuries, salt was highly valued for its ability to preserve foods and bring out natural flavours. Today, in addition to common table salt, there is a wide world of speciality salts to explore:
Persian Blue Salt
This artisanal salt mined from ancient Iranian deposits features a striking blue colour derived from natural mineral deposits. Its large, irregular crystals dissolve slowly, delivering a complex yet mild salinity that enhances the natural flavours of meats, kebabs, stews and rice dishes. A sprinkle of this elegant salt adds a sophisticated finish to both traditional and modern Persian cuisine.
Black Salt
'Kala Namak', or Black Salt, is a staple in Indian cuisine. This Himalayan rock salt undergoes a unique process of being heated in a furnace with herbs like Harad seeds, which gives it a dark colour and a sulphurous aroma. Its distinct flavour is what makes your chaats and raitas irresistible. Not just that, it's also known for its digestive properties, making it a perfect blend of taste and health.
Himalayan Pink Salt
Himalayan Pink Salt, also known as 'Sendha Namak', is a culinary gem mined from the ancient sea beds of the Himalayas. Its pink hue, owing to the presence of iron oxide, is a visual treat, and its rich mineral content adds a unique depth of flavour to your dishes. This unrefined salt is a healthier alternative to regular table salt and is a favourite in Indian kitchens, especially during the fasting season.
Kosher Salt
With its large, flaky crystals, Kosher Salt is a darling of chefs worldwide. It's not only about its ability to dissolve quickly and distribute flavour evenly, but also about how its texture allows for easy pick-up, giving you control over your seasoning. While it's named for its use in making meats kosher by removing surface blood, it's a versatile ingredient that can enhance any dish.
Truffle Salt
Infused with real black truffles, this high-end finishing salt adds an earthy and luxurious flavour to dishes. Its rich aroma and subtle truffle notes enhance the natural flavours of pasta, roasted vegetables, soups, and eggs, elevating simple preparations into culinary masterpieces. Only a light sprinkle is needed to work its magic.
Alaea Red Hawaiian Salt
This traditional Hawaiian salt features red volcanic clay that imparts a rosy hue and mellow flavour. Hand-harvested from ancient sea beds, its large flakes add visual appeal and a delicate salinity to meats, seafood, and vegetables. The salt's reddish colour and mild taste complement Hawaiian cuisine and imbue dishes with the spirit of the islands.
Low-Sodium Salt
For those keeping an eye on their sodium intake, Low-Sodium Salt is a blessing. It's a blend of regular salt and potassium salts, providing 30-40% less sodium than regular salt. It's an easy switch and can be used in all dishes just like regular salt, making it a heart-friendly choice without compromising on taste.
Sea Salt
Sea Salt, as the name suggests, is derived from evaporated seawater. It's a treasure trove of trace minerals like potassium, zinc, and magnesium, which lend a complex flavour profile. Its coarse texture makes it perfect for finishing dishes, adding a delightful crunch. Sprinkle it over your salads or caramel desserts, and you'll notice an indulgent difference.
Cyprus Flake Salt
This flaky sea salt from the Mediterranean island of Cyprus offers a mild yet satisfying salinity and delightful crunch. Its large, pyramid-shaped crystals are ideal for finishing dishes just before serving. A light dusting enhances the flavours of grilled meats and vegetables, salads, cheeses, and baked goods, imparting a subtle saltiness and textural contrast that elevates simple preparations.
Black Lava Salt
Harvested from ancient volcanic deposits in Hawaii, this dark salt gets its colour from mineral-rich lava rock. The fine crystals have an intense yet balanced salinity that brings out the natural flavours of foods without overwhelming them. A light dusting of black lava salt imparts a deep, smoky flavour and inky black colour that contrasts beautifully with light-coloured dishes, elevating the visual presentation and taste of meals with an air of sophistication.
In the world of cooking, salt is not just a seasoning, but a game-changer. The right kind of salt can elevate your dish, adding layers of flavour and texture. So, the next time you cook, remember, it's not just about a pinch of salt, but about which pinch of salt you add. Explore these speciality salts and let your dishes tell a tale of flavours, far and wide.
