Many types of Salt are used in cooking, each with unique characteristics and different applications. Far beyond a simple seasoning, Salt has a rich history that spans more than 6,000 years.
Its first recorded use was in ancient civilizations when the worldwide people began experimenting with it not only as a condiment but also to preserve and extend the shelf life of food, especially meat.
Over time, Salt became an essential item in our kitchens, being considered one of the main ingredients to enhance the flavor of the dishes we prepare today. Currently, there are various types of Salt, such as sea salt, Himalayan pink Salt, and kosher Salt, each with its particularities and ways of use.
In today’s tips, we’ll learn the main types of Salt available on the market and how to use them optimally, preparing even more flavorful recipes!
Main Types of Salt
There are various types of Salt, each with specific characteristics and uses. Each type of Salt helps bring a unique touch to your dishes, from meats to desserts. Everything will depend on its origin and the method of production and extraction of this mineral.
Check out the main types of Salt and learn how to use each one, combining them in the best way to enhance your recipes!
Table Salt
Table salt, also known as refined Salt, is the most common type used at home and in restaurant dishes. It undergoes a purification process and is often enriched with iodine, an essential mineral.
Refined Salt is ideal for seasoning foods during cooking and for use at the table, as its fine granulation easily dissolves and blends into food more seamlessly.
Common Salt is versatile and can be used in nearly all culinary preparations. It can season cooking water, sauces, soups, and stir-fries. Since it is concentrated, it is advisable to start with a small amount and adjust to the taste to avoid over-seasoning.
Sea Salt
Sea salt is extracted from seawater through evaporation. Its flavor and texture can vary depending on the region of origin and the production process. Generally, sea salt retains some minerals that give foods a more intense flavor. Among all types of Salt, it is perfect for seasoning meats, grilled vegetables, and even for finishing dishes.
It is also excellent for enhancing the natural flavor of foods. You can use it in marinades to season meats and salads before grilling. The texture of sea salt is also great for finishing dishes!
Are sea salt and coarse Salt the same thing?
Although they are pretty similar types of Salt, sea salt and coarse Salt are not the same. Sea salt is obtained through the evaporation of seawater and can vary in texture and grain size, presenting fine or coarse grains.
On the other hand, coarse Salt refers to a form of Salt with larger grains, which can be produced from various types of Salt, including sea salt. Therefore, sea salt can be found in fine or coarse versions, but not all coarse Salt is necessarily sea salt.
Himalayan Pink Salt
Himalayan pink salt is a mineral well-known for its color and is considered less processed. It is rich in minerals such as magnesium and potassium and extracted from Himalayan mountain mines.
This Salt is ideal for salads, cold dishes, and cheese boards. It can also be used to add a final touch to various recipes. Additionally, pink Salt can be used to season roasted and grilled meats or as a finishing touch for more sophisticated recipes.
Himalayan Pink Salt Block
The Himalayan pink salt block is a natural and unprocessed form of this type of Salt. It has a characteristic color similar to salmon. It is appreciated not only for its flavor but also for its aesthetic and therapeutic properties.
The pink salt block can be used to prepare dishes like grilled items and various types of meat, which are served directly on it, providing a beautiful presentation at the table.
Kosher Salt
Kosher salt originated from the process of curing meat and is known for its larger and coarser grains, making it quite different from other types of Salt. It originates in Jewish cuisine and is extracted from marine sources or salt deposits..
In the kitchen, especially among professional chefs, kosher Salt is highly valued because its texture facilitates even dish distribution, allowing for greater control while seasoning.
It is perfect for seasoning meats and poultry, but it’s also an excellent choice for adding flavor to vegetables before cooking, as it enhances the flavors just right. Additionally, kosher Salt can be used in pickles and marinades because it dissolves quickly and penetrates ingredients better than other types of Salt.
GulGul Salt and Coarse
GulGul Salt is a high-quality salt that forms on the surface of salt ponds. It is considered one of the best salts in the world due to its delicate flavor and crunchy texture. This Salt is perfect for finishing dishes, such as meats, fish, and desserts, as it enhances flavors without overpowering them. It consists of tiny crystals that make any dish much more visually appealing!
It should be used as a finishing touch for prepared dishes, such as meats, fish, vegetables, or even gourmet desserts. Sprinkle a small amount before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish.
Where does GulGul Salt come from?
This type of Salt is produced in Pakistan region with a hot and dry climate, where seawater evaporation is intense.
In addition to these regions, other places, such as the southern United States and some Caribbean islands, also produce the best coarse salt and grains. Its harvesting is done with great care and requires specialized knowledge, making it a highly valued product widely used in haute cuisine.
Smoked Salt
Smoked Salt is produced by exposing Salt to the smoke of specific types of wood. The result is a salt with an intense, smoky flavor, ideal for dishes that require a special touch. It can also be used to season meats, snacks, appetizers, and popcorn for a unique treat.
Black Salt
Black salt, or Himalayan black salt, is a mineral salt that contains a significant amount of iron and other minerals, giving it a dark coloration. Its flavor is distinctive, and it is one of the most widely used types of Salt in Indian cuisine. Black Salt is also excellent for seasoning vegetarian and vegan dishes, as it enhances the flavor of vegetables and grains.
Celery Salt is a mix of common (or refined) Salt and dehydrated celery. It is mainly used to season broths and soups, but it is also a good option for adding flavor to salads.
Lemon salt is a mixture of common refined Salt and dehydrated lemon juice. Its tangy and refreshing flavor makes it ideal for seasoning seafood, salads, and vegetable dishes. It’s an excellent option for those who enjoy adding citrus to their recipes.
Seaweed Salt
Seaweed salt is a mix of sea salt and dried seaweed. It is excellent for seasoning soups, broths, and seafood-based dishes. It is widely used in Japan and other Oriental countries. This Salt can also be used in salads, legumes, and vegetables and for seasoning quick appetizers.
Maldon Salt
Maldon salt is a flaked sea salt known for its crunchy texture and lightness, which gives dishes a more delicate flavor. Its origin is in England, and it is versatile, making it an ideal ingredient for finishing various dishes.
Its flakes dissolve quickly, enhancing the flavors of the seasonings used incredibly. In addition to complementing meats and fish, Maldon salt is also an excellent choice for vegetables, providing a light and unique touch.
Types of Salt: What Are the Formats?
We’ve already talked about the main types of Salt, but did you know that, in addition to the variety of salts, they can also be found in different formats? Here are the main presentations of Salt for you to check out:
Pyramid Salt
This type of Salt has a pyramidal shape and is often used when serving, adding a special touch to the presentation of dishes.
Ground Salt:
After being ground, this Salt becomes very fine, making it ideal for the most common culinary preparations in daily life.
Parrilla Salt
Parrilla salt is widely used in Argentina and Uruguay. It is slightly coarser, perfect for seasoning barbecues, fillets, steaks, and meats in general.
Proper Consumption of Salt Types
Daily salt consumption is essential for the appropriate functioning of the human body, as sodium, one of the main components of Salt, plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure, transmitting nerve impulses, and maintaining fluid balance.
The ideal amount for adults is up to 5 grams of Salt per day, equivalent to about one teaspoon. Salt consumption recommendations for children vary by age, ranging from 1g to 5g daily.
It is crucial always to maintain balance and consume this mineral responsibly to support the proper functioning of the body and overall health!