Description
400g Cooking Black Salt in resealable pouch grain size 1-2mm.
This black salt is derived from natural rock salt sourced from the Himalayas. It primarily consists of sodium chloride along with trace amounts of sodium sulfate sodium bisulfate sodium bisulfite sodium sulfide iron sulfide and hydrogen sulfide.
- Sodium chloride provides the salty flavor.
- Iron sulfide contributes to its dark violet color.
- Sulfur compounds impart a unique savory taste and distinctive aroma with hydrogen sulfide being the most notable contributor.
- Acidic bisulfates and bisulfites add a mildly sour flavor.
Although hydrogen sulfide can be toxic in high concentrations the levels present in this black salt used for culinary purposes are minimal making it safe for consumption. The aroma is reminiscent of rotten eggs and boiled milk. This salt is favored by some vegans for dishes that replicate the taste of eggs such as seasoning tofu or avocado to create egg salad or deviled eggs.
How is Natural Black Salt Made?
Natural rock salt is extracted from salt mines. The large chunks are crushed and placed in a furnace. Specific herbs like pepper rosemary rue cinnamon and others are mixed with the rock salt in precise ratios. The mixture is then melted at high temperatures. Once liquefied it is poured into smaller vessels and allowed to cool solidifying over several hours. The solidified material is then broken into smaller pieces resulting in the final black salt product. Different grades of black salt are produced to meet various preferences including lump granulated or fine forms.
When and Where to Use Black Salt?
This black salt is commonly used in Asian cuisines for various purposes including as an edible salt due to its digestibility and medicinal uses. It is also utilized for animal digestion.
It is widely used in South Asian dishes from Bangladesh Nepal India and Pakistan as a condiment enhancing chaats chutneys salads fruits raitas and various savory snacks. Black salt is essential in chaat masala providing its characteristic sulfurous aroma. Those unfamiliar with black salt may find its scent similar to rotten eggs. Additionally it is valued in Ayurveda as a cooling spice serving as a laxative and digestive aid and is believed to alleviate flatulence and heartburn. In Jammu it is used to treat goitres.
