From the Earth to Your Plate: Cooking with Himalayan Salt and Its Health Benefits

As a naturopath, I have always been fascinated by the healing power of nature. One such gift from Mother Earth is the pink Himalayan salt. Harvested from the ancient sea beds of the Himalayas, this unrefined salt is believed to be the purest form of salt available.

A Geological Wonder: The Origins of Himalayan Salt

Himalayan salt is believed to be formed from ancient sea beds that were pushed upwards by tectonic movements millions of years ago. Protected for millennia under layers of rock, this pink salt is said to be minimally processed, retaining a wealth of minerals compared to refined table salt. While the exact mineral content can vary, Himalayan salt is claimed to contain trace amounts of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron, among others.

Beyond Flavor: The Potential Health Benefits of Himalayan Salt

While research is ongoing, proponents of Himalayan salt suggest it may offer several health advantages over regular table salt. Here are some potential benefits:

• Mineral Balance: The presence of trace minerals in Himalayan salt, though in small quantities, could contribute to a more balanced mineral intake.
• Improved Digestion: Himalayan salt is thought to stimulate the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach, which aids digestion.
• Reduced Sodium Intake: Due to its flaky texture, Himalayan salt may lead to using less overall sodium compared to table salt, potentially benefiting those watching their sodium intake.

Himalayan salt's unique taste and potential for a more balanced mineral profile make it an interesting option for health-conscious cooks.

Himalayan Salt vs. Table Salt: A Tale of Two Salts

The key difference between Himalayan salt and table salt lies in processing. Table salt undergoes extensive refinement, stripping away most trace minerals and leaving mostly sodium chloride. Himalayan salt, on the other hand, is minimally processed, potentially retaining a wider range of minerals. This difference is reflected in the color – the iconic pink hue of Himalayan salt is attributed to the presence of iron oxide, while table salt appears bright white.

Unlocking the Culinary Potential of Himalayan Salt

Himalayan salt isn't just about health benefits; it brings a delightful touch to your culinary creations! Here are some ways to incorporate it into your cooking:

• Grinding for Seasoning: Grind coarse Himalayan salt in a spice grinder for a finishing touch on meats, vegetables, and even desserts. The flaky texture allows for a lighter application of sodium compared to table salt.
  
  
• Searing and Grilling: Himalayan salt blocks are a unique cooking surface. Heat the block on a stovetop or grill, then sear fish, steak, or vegetables directly on the salt for a flavorful and visually stunning presentation.
  
  
• Brining and Marinades: Dissolve Himalayan salt in water to create brines for meats or poultry. The subtle mineral content can enhance the flavor of your dish.
  
  

Recipe Inspiration: Himalayan Salt-Crusted Salmon with Roasted Vegetables

Ready to try Himalayan salt in action? This recipe is a great introduction to its culinary magic:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 salmon fillets (skin-on)
  • 1/2 cup coarse Himalayan salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or thyme)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Assorted vegetables (broccoli, asparagus, carrots)

• Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Combine Himalayan salt and herbs in a shallow dish.
  3. Pat salmon fillets dry and press them gently into the salt mixture, coating both sides.
  4. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Toss vegetables with olive oil and spread them around the salmon on the baking sheet.
  6. Roast for 15-6. Roast for 15-20 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork and vegetables are tender-crisp.
  7. Serve immediately, spooning the pan juices over the salmon and vegetables.

Tips and Considerations

• Himalayan salt can be more expensive than table salt. However, a little goes a long way due to its flaky texture.
• When using a Himalayan salt block for cooking, preheat it slowly and gradually to avoid cracking.
• Himalayan salt is naturally coarse. If using it in a grinder, ensure it's completely dry to prevent clumping.
• Remember, regardless of the type of salt, moderation is key for a healthy diet.

A Naturopath's Recommendation

Sustained Energy: Many of my clients lack energy or have unstable energy through the day. What we eat will help you keep optimum energy levels! Kick off the day with a protein rich breakfast, with a bit of good fats and complex carbs. Keep it going with a good mix of protein, carbs and fats at lunch and of course dinner too. Play around with portions with carbs - as you may find you need more as the day goes on or based on your activity levels. 

Lifestyle: Good nutrition goes hand in hand with balanced lifestyle - it is just as important to make time for stress management such as self care, to truly unwind; prioritize sleep, get in daily movement and make time to plan your weekly meals! This makes sticking to an 80/20 healthy eating pattern much easier and more efficient (not to mention cost effective!). 

Ultra processed foods: Did you know, ultra processed foods have been linked to a number of chronic diseases including cancer, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Ultra processed foods are more often made in a lab rather than a kitchen - switch out snacks and meals for whole foods (foods that have no or minimal processing) for a more healthier you! 

Bonus Himalayan Salt Cooking Benefits

Himalayan salt is much more than just a pretty pink addition to your spice rack. Here are some reasons why it’s considered the healthiest salt for cooking:

1. Rich in Minerals: Himalayan salt contains 84 trace minerals including potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are essential for our health.
2. Enhances Flavor: Its unique flavor profile can enhance the taste of your dishes, making it a favorite among chefs worldwide.
3. Balances Body’s pH: It can help balance your body’s pH levels, which is beneficial for your immune system.

Going Beyond the Grain: Exploring Different Types of Himalayan Salt

Himalayan salt isn't just one type! Depending on the specific location and processing methods, Himalayan salt can come in various forms, each offering its own unique characteristics:

• Fine Himalayan Salt: This is the most common variety, ground to a fine powder resembling table salt. It's perfect for everyday seasoning in grinders or salt shakers.
• Coarse Himalayan Salt: This option boasts larger crystals, ideal for grinding for a more robust texture and visible salt flakes on your dishes.
• Himalayan Salt Flakes: These delicate flakes add a touch of elegance and a delightful crunch to grilled meats, salads, and even chocolate desserts.
• Himalayan Black Salt: This rare variety gets its dark color from the presence of iron and other minerals. It has a slightly sulfurous flavor profile, often used in Indian cuisine.
• Himalayan Pink Salt Blocks: These impressive slabs of salt are not for grinding but for cooking. Used for searing, grilling, or serving food, they impart a subtle saltiness and even heat distribution.

Building a Well-Seasoned Pantry: Himalayan Salt vs. Other Cooking Salts

While Himalayan salt offers a unique twist, it's not the only player in the world of cooking salts. Here's a quick comparison to help you decide:

• Sea Salt: Similar to Himalayan salt in terms of minimal processing and potential trace minerals, sea salt comes in various textures and flavors depending on its origin (e.g., French sea salt, Maldon salt).
• Kosher Salt: This coarse-grained salt dissolves quickly, making it ideal for brining and koshering meats. It has a neutral flavor and is often preferred by chefs for its ease of use.
• Smoked Salt: Infused with wood smoke during the drying process, smoked salt adds a rich, smoky flavor to meats, vegetables, and even dips.

Ultimately, the best type of salt depends on your recipe and desired flavor profile. Himalayan salt offers a wonderful option for those seeking a unique taste and potential health benefits, but don't be afraid to experiment with other varieties to discover your favorites!

The Final Grain: Himalayan Salt – A Flavorful and Functional Addition to Your Kitchen

Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, Himalayan salt can be a valuable addition to your pantry. Its unique flavor profile, potential health benefits, and versatility make it a compelling option for exploring new taste sensations. So, grab your Himalayan salt grinder, preheat your Himalayan salt block, or experiment with different types – a world of delicious possibilities awaits!

In Conclusion: A Salty Adventure Awaits

Himalayan salt offers a unique and flavorful addition to your kitchen. While research on its health benefits is ongoing, its potential for improved mineral intake and a distinctive taste profile make it a compelling option for health-conscious cooks. So, the next time you're looking to elevate your culinary creations, consider venturing beyond the ordinary table salt and explore the wonders of Himalayan pink salt.