A common term that people use for coarse salts is kosher salt, but the two are entirely different from each other. The pink color of coarse salt is due to the presence of certain minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Coarse salts are typically used for salting meats but can also be used in some recipes. They are also widely used in brines, a salt and water solution with both cooking and non-cooking applications. However, buying coarse/pink salt is not the same as buying regular salt, and there are some things you should keep in mind.
Which to Choose: Grains, Crystals, or Fine Coarse Salt?
Coarse salts are mainly found in three different textures – grains, crystals, and a fine powder-like form similar to table salt. Many people use coarse salts to remove surface blood from various kinds of meats, and in this case, it is better to go with coarse grains as they are slightly smaller in size and easier to spread or sprinkle. However, if you plan on using coarse salt for recipes like soups, salads, pasta, or smoothies, the better choice is to choose fine coarse salts as they can be quickly dissolved.
Quality and Ingredients
Good quality is essential when it comes to coarse salts, as the higher the quality, the higher the effectiveness. One way to ensure that you choose a salt of premium quality is by going with one that is natural and ethically sourced from mineral-rich mines. An optically cleaned pink salt is purer, more authentic, and unprocessed, a key factor one can consider. The coarse salt you select should also be free of artificial coloring, MSG, gluten, soy, dairy, and anti-caking agents. If preferred, buyers can even go with kosher-certified and non-GMO coarse salts.
Packaging is Key
It may surprise some people, but the purest coarse salts can survive for more than a million, provided you take measures to avoid bacterial growth. It is best to keep coarse salts away from moisture and heat to prolong their shelf life, and therefore, proper packaging is vital. You are most likely to find coarse salts packed in plastic bags, and even though a suitable choice, it should be resealable to keep the salt fresh.
It is even better if you choose a stand-up pouch so it can be stored easily. Buyers can also go with plastic bottles or glass jars, and if you buy coarse grains or crystals, some bottles come with built-in grinders, which is an excellent feature.
Categories Simillar to Coarse Salts includes Flavored Salts, Salt Substitutes and Sea Salts