List of edible salts

List of Edible Salts

Edible salt, also known as table salt or just salt, is a mineral composed primarily of sodium chloride. It is essential for life in general, and saltiness is one of the basic human tastes. Salt is used in cooking, is often present in a great many processed foods, and is also used as a preservative. There are many different types of edible salts available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. This article provides a list of some of the most common types of edible salts.

Sea Salt

Sea salt is produced through evaporation of ocean water or water from saltwater lakes, usually with little processing. Depending on the water source, this leaves behind certain trace minerals and elements. The minerals add flavor and color to sea salt, which also comes in a variety of coarseness levels.

Table Salt

Table salt is more heavily processed to eliminate minerals and usually contains an additive to prevent clumping. Most table salt also has added iodine, an essential nutrient that helps maintain a healthy thyroid.

Himalayan Pink Salt

Himalayan pink salt is harvested from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan. It gets its pink color from trace minerals, like magnesium, potassium, and calcium.

Kosher Salt

Kosher salt is flaky and coarse-grained, and is easy to pick up with your fingers. It's often used in recipes that call for a "pinch" of salt.

Celtic Salt

Celtic salt, also known as grey salt, is harvested from tidal ponds off the coast of France. The salt crystals are raked out of the ponds, and the mineral-rich, slightly greyish water gives the salt its color.

Fleur de Sel

Fleur de Sel, or "flower of salt," is harvested by hand from sea salt ponds. The top layer of salt is delicately skimmed off the top, and what's left is a flaky salt that's excellent for finishing dishes.

Black Salt

Black salt, also known as Kala Namak, is a type of rock salt, a salty and pungent-smelling condiment used in South Asia. It is also used in many vegan recipes to mimic the taste of eggs.

Smoked Salt

Smoked salt is slow-smoked over a wood fire to absorb the flavor of the smoke, and can be used to give dishes a smoky flavor.

Pickling Salt

Pickling salt is used in pickling and canning to ensure a crisp final product. It does not contain any added iodine or anti-caking agents.

Rock Salt

Rock salt is a large crystal salt that is a slightly grayish color. It is less refined and still contains minerals that are removed from normal table salt.

Conclusion

There are many other types of edible salts not listed here. Each has its own unique flavor profile and uses in the kitchen. It's worth experimenting with different types to find out which ones you prefer for different uses.