Himalayan salt is known for its distinctive pink color and its healthy properties. This mineral is mainly extracted from the Khewra mines, located in the Punjab region of Pakistan. The continents moved due to tectonic activity. The rock beneath the sea was lifted by the pressure of the plates. A mountain range was formed. Many people know the Himalayas as a mountain range where salt crystals are mined to make the popular rock salt.
These mines are the largest and oldest in the world, and are estimated to contain around 6.7 billion tons of salt.
What is Himalayan salt and why is it so valuable?
Himalayan salt formed millions of years ago in what was once an ancient prehistoric sea. Unlike common salt, this salt is extracted manually and does not go through refining processes, which preserves its natural minerals. It contains more than 80 minerals and trace elements, such as calcium, magnesium and potassium, which give it its characteristic pink color and numerous health benefits.
What is Himalayan salt used for?
Himalayan pink salt is known for its versatility and multiple uses:
- Culinary. It is used as a condiment to enhance the flavor of foods, both in everyday cooking and in gourmet preparations.
- Therapeutic. Himalayan salt baths help relax muscles, improve circulation and detoxify skin. It is also used in inhalations to relieve respiratory conditions.
- Decorative. Himalayan salt lamps are popular for their purported health benefits, such as air purification. In addition, it provides a warm and relaxing light.
- Beauty and personal care. It is a common ingredient in body and facial scrubs. This is due to its ability to remove dead skin cells, leaving it soft and renewed.
Properties of Himalayan pink salt
Himalayan pink salt is not only visually appealing, but is also loaded with beneficial properties:
- Rich in minerals. It contains more than 80 essential minerals and trace elements, such as magnesium, calcium, potassium and iron, which are necessary for the proper functioning of the body.
- PH balance. It helps maintain the body’s acid-alkaline balance, which improves digestion and overall health.
- Detoxifying properties. Used in baths, Himalayan salt can help eliminate toxins and improve blood circulation, contributing to healthier skin.
- Improves hydration. Himalayan salt, containing natural electrolytes, maintains adequate hydration, especially in people who do intense physical activity.
- Antibacterial properties. Thanks to its purity and high mineral content, this salt has antibacterial properties. Which is ideal for wound treatment and skin care.
Benefits of Himalayan salt
Himalayan salt has earned a special place in the kitchen not only for its visual appeal, but also for its many benefits in food preparation and flavor.
Enhances the natural flavor of foods
One of the main advantages of Himalayan salt is its ability to enhance the natural flavor of foods. Its unique mineral composition provides a milder and less aggressive flavor than common table salt. This allows the authentic flavors of the ingredients to shine through.
Contains essential minerals
Its high content of essential minerals not only contributes to a more complex and balanced flavor, but also offers health benefits, such as supporting muscle and nerve function.
Lower sodium content by volume
Due to the crystalline structure, its grains are larger and less dense. This makes a pinch of Himalayan salt contain less sodium than a pinch of regular salt, helping to reduce sodium intake without sacrificing flavor.
Ideal for gourmet preparations
It is highly appreciated in gourmet cuisine. It can be used to season meats, fish, and vegetables, or to add a finishing touch to cold dishes such as salads or carpaccio. Additionally, it can be used in salt blocks for cooking or serving food, adding unique flavor and good presentation.
Improves food preservation
Thanks to its natural antibacterial properties, Himalayan salt is excellent for food preservation. Its use for salting meats and fish prolongs its shelf life and intensifies its flavor over time.
Compatible with special diets
For those following low-sodium diets or diets with additive restrictions, it is a more natural and less processed option. Being pure and containing no anti-caking agents or other additives, it is a healthy alternative for those looking to avoid artificial ingredients in their diet.
Culinary uses of Himalayan salt
Himalayan pink salt is a versatile seasoning in the kitchen, capable of transforming both simple and sophisticated dishes. Here are some suggestions for dishes where you can use this salt:
- Meats and fish. Himalayan salt is used to marinate meats and fish, helping to enhance their natural flavors. Mixing salt with herbs and spices creates a dry marinade to prepare a brine that tenderizes and seasons meat or fish evenly.
Adding Himalayan salt to stir-fries improves the flavor of the ingredients. Its mild flavor is ideal for dishes that depend on a delicate balance of flavors. - Soups and stews. It is perfect for seasoning soups and stews, providing a rounded flavor. Its uniform dissolution ensures that each spoonful is perfectly seasoned.
Coarse Himalayan salt can be sprinkled on salads just before serving to add a crunchy, salty touch that contrasts with the freshness of the vegetables. - Breads and pastries. This pink salt can be incorporated into the dough of artisan breads to add depth of flavor. As well as in desserts such as cookies or brownies, to intensify sweet flavors and add a delicious contrast.
- Pasta dishes. Adding Himalayan salt to pasta cooking water improves its flavor and seasons the dish evenly from within.
Himalayan Salt from Sal Maldon
Maldon Salt® Himalayan Salt is famous for its pink hue due to trace minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper and iron that are extracted from ancient underground salt deposits. These were formed millions of years ago in the Himalayan mountains. This salt has a unique and complex flavor, with a touch of subtle sweetness due to traces of iron oxide, which differentiates it from other common salts. Apart from its culinary properties, Himalayan salt is valued for its purity and natural origin, without any type of industrial processing.
This Himalayan pink salt is used to prepare all types of meals, sauces and curries, or with a grinder for everyday dishes. This provides a distinctive touch both in flavor and presentation. Its delicate pink color not only embellishes dishes, but is also a perfect garnish for cocktails and gourmet presentations. It is a salt that will perfectly accompany each of the recipes, elevating the gastronomic experience with its crunchy texture and balanced flavor.
Codina Foods has Maldon Salt as the exclusive distributor of Himalayan salt. This salt can be purchased in stores such as El Corte Inglés, Hipercor, Caprabo and Carrefour, thus offering easy access to one of the most valued products in gourmet cuisine.
