Salt is a natural mineral that we obtain in two primary ways—by evaporating seawater or mining underground salt deposits. Chemically, all salt is the same: sodium chloride. However, how it’s processed (or left unprocessed) significantly impacts its texture, flavor, and culinary uses. So, what makes kosher salt unique?
Kosher salt stands out due to its distinctive flaky texture. Depending on the production method, its crystals can be flat or shaped like tiny hollow pyramids. This unique structure makes it easy to pinch and control the amount you sprinkle, which is why professional chefs and home cooks alike love using it.
Why Is It Called “Kosher” Salt?
The name “kosher salt” can be misleading. It doesn’t mean the salt itself is inherently kosher; rather, the term comes from its historical use in the koshering process of meat. According to Jewish dietary laws, meat must be properly drained of blood before consumption. The coarse texture of kosher salt made it ideal for drawing out blood from meat, and over time, it became widely known as “kosher.”
Technically, any pure salt can be kosher. However, some brands carry an official kosher certification, meaning they have been inspected by a rabbi. That said, the differences in taste and appearance between kosher-certified and non-certified salt are minimal.
Kosher Salt vs. Table Salt vs. Sea Salt
Salt is one of the most essential ingredients in any kitchen, so understanding the differences between its types can help you make better cooking choices. Though all salt is chemically similar, its texture, density, and mineral content vary.
1. Table Salt
- Harvested from underground salt deposits and refined to remove impurities and minerals.
- Has small, uniform grains with a powdery texture, making it denser than other types of salt.
- A little goes a long way—because of its fine grain, even a small pinch provides a strong salty flavor.
- Often contains added iodine for thyroid health and anti-caking agents like calcium silicate.
2. Kosher Salt
- Less refined than table salt, making it a more natural choice.
- The flaky, less-dense crystals make it easier to control the amount used.
- Typically sourced from underground deposits or obtained through evaporation.
- Dissolves more slowly than table salt, giving you better control over seasoning and making it a favorite in the kitchen.
3. Sea Salt
- The least refined of the three, often appearing as small, translucent crystals that can be fine or coarse.
- Derived from evaporated seawater, retaining trace minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium.
- Comes in a variety of types worldwide, each with unique flavors and colors.
- Less versatile than other salts—typically used for finishing dishes rather than everyday cooking. It also tends to be more expensive.
When to Use Kosher Salt in Cooking
Kosher salt is a must-have in any kitchen. Its flaky texture makes it easy to grab with your fingers, allowing for more precise seasoning. Unlike table salt, it doesn’t contain iodine, which can sometimes leave a slightly metallic aftertaste in dishes. Sea salt, on the other hand, has a strong, concentrated saltiness that isn’t always ideal for every recipe. Kosher salt, however, offers a clean, mild flavor, making it incredibly versatile.
It’s perfect for seasoning meats and vegetables by hand before cooking. It works well in salads, soups, and sauces because the larger flakes allow for even distribution. You can also keep a small dish of kosher salt on the table for easy sprinkling over finished dishes. But don’t stop there – use it for baking, grilling, seasoning fries or popcorn, curing meats, or any recipe that calls for a coarser salt.
This salt is also an excellent choice for pickling and brining because it lacks anti-caking agents, which can sometimes cause a cloudy or discolored brine. Additionally, it’s ideal for fermentation processes like making sauerkraut or kimchi. Just be sure to choose a brand that doesn’t include unnecessary additives.
If you enjoy smoked salt, kosher salt is a great option for absorbing smoky flavors, as its flaky structure allows the smoke to penetrate the layers of salt.
Kosher salt stands out due to its unique texture and versatility. Whether its crystals are flat or pyramid-shaped, this salt is a kitchen essential, giving you better control over seasoning and enhancing flavors without overwhelming a dish. If you haven’t tried using this salt yet, it’s time to add it to your pantry!