Rock Salt

Rock Salt, also known as halite, is a mineral form of sodium chloride and is used for seasoning and preserving food. Unlike table salt, which is heavily processed and refined, rock salt is mined in its natural form and typically contains trace minerals. It is not bound by seasonality and is available year-round. Rock Salt is a staple in South Asian cuisines and is often used in large chunks in traditional stoves for grilling. It's also popular for creating salt crusts on meats and fish, and for seasoning while cooking. Its coarse texture makes it a favorite for finishing dishes as well.

Rock Salt Synonyms

Halite
Himalayan salt
Sea salt crystals
Mined salt

Different Forms/Types of Rock Salt

Chunks

Irregularly shaped, large pieces of rock salt, suitable for grating over dishes or for use in brining solutions.

Granulated

Rock salt in small, coarse grains, often used in salt grinders for seasoning at the table or for creating a salt crust on meats.

Blocks or Slabs

Large, solid pieces of rock salt that can be used for serving dishes, grilling, or as a cooking surface for imparting a subtle saltiness.

How to Choose Rock Salt

When selecting rock salt, consider its intended use. For culinary purposes, ensure that it is food-grade and free from impurities. The color of rock salt can vary from transparent to white, pink, or dark red, depending on the minerals present. For cooking blocks or slabs, look for ones that are even in thickness and without cracks, which could indicate potential breakage during use.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Rock Salt

Rock Salt, also known as halite or sea salt crystals, is a mineral form of sodium chloride. It's often used in cooking for its ability to impart a burst of clean, salty flavor and for its textural contrast. When using rock salt, it's important to consider its size and hardness; it doesn't dissolve as quickly as table salt. It's ideal for creating crusts on meat or fish, seasoning water for boiling pasta or vegetables, and finishing dishes with a crunchy texture. For intermediate and expert home cooks, remember that rock salt can vary in saltiness, so it's best to add it in increments and taste as you go. Also, due to its large size, it's not suitable for salt shakers and should be crushed or ground before using in recipes that require a finer texture.

Shelf Life of Rock Salt

Rock salt should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture to prevent it from clumping together. Granulated rock salt can be kept in its original packaging or transferred to an airtight container. Blocks or slabs should be wiped clean after use and thoroughly dried before storage. Chunks of rock salt can be stored in a breathable container, such as a burlap sack, to maintain their dryness. Properly stored, rock salt has an indefinite shelf life.

Recommended Brands for Rock Salt

cooking slabs: Himalayan Chef

Himalayan pink salt: Sherpa Pink

granulated rock salt: Morton

Cooking Techniques for Rock Salt

Crusting: Rock salt can be used to create a salt crust for baking fish or meat, locking in moisture and flavor. The crust is typically made by mixing rock salt with egg whites and herbs, then encasing the protein before baking.

Grinding: For a finer consistency, rock salt can be ground using a mortar and pestle or a salt grinder. This allows for more even distribution in dishes and is perfect for seasoning when a delicate touch is needed.

Finishing: As a finishing salt, rock salt adds a burst of flavor and a crunchy texture. It's best sprinkled over dishes just before serving, as its large crystals provide a pleasant contrast to softer textures in the food.

Popular Rock Salt Recipes

Salt-Crusted Whole Fish
Salt-Baked Prime Rib
Chocolate-Dipped Salted Caramels

Rock Salt Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 0 g
protein: 0 g
calories: 0 kcal
carbohydrates: 0 g

Flavor Combinations

Rock Salt pairs well with a variety of ingredients, enhancing the natural flavors of meats, seafood, and vegetables. It's particularly effective with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, which can withstand the high heat of salt crusting. Rock Salt also complements sweet flavors, providing a balance to the sweetness in desserts like salted caramel. When used as a finishing salt, it can elevate the taste of simple dishes like sliced tomatoes, grilled steak, or even fresh melon.

Allergen Information

Rock Salt does not contain allergens and is generally safe for consumption by individuals with food allergies. However, those on a sodium-restricted diet should use it sparingly.