The roadmap of salt is pretty much like a rainbow. There is pink, black, lava, Celtic and now green as well. Because of its high mineral concentration, Himalayan sea salt is naturally pink. Black salt is made from salt mines in Pakistan and Nepal. The black color of the black salt is produced by a chemical reaction between the salt, herbs, and charcoal that is generated by heat and is quite popular in India. Then some salts have been flavored with green tea, jalapeno spice, or turmeric (and other spices), which produce shades of green and yellow. However, did you realize that some salts are inherently green? It's not composed of seaweed, rather.
It is Salicornia salt, which is gaining much popularity among health-conscious people due to its nutrient-dense content. Green salt is highly beneficial because, despite its saltiness, it has 50% less sodium than regular table salt.
So, is green salt safe to eat?
The History of Salicornia Salt and How It Is Made
Green Salicornia salt, also known as sea asparagus salt, pickleweed or glasswort salt, has roots tracing back to coastal regions where the Salicornia plant naturally grows. Historically, this salt was a byproduct of the culinary use of Salicornia, a succulent plant that absorbs the minerals and salt from its saline environment. Traditionally used by coastal communities, it has recently gained popularity for its unique flavor and health benefits.
Read More- What Is Salicornia Salt?
Making Salicornia salt involves harvesting the Salicornia plant, which is then cleaned and dried. Once dried, the plant is ground into a fine powder, resulting in a vibrant green salt that retains the briny, umami flavor of the original plant.
This unique method is vehemently adopted by SaltWise, which ensures that the final product is rich in minerals and retains the natural taste of the sea.
How Can You Cook With Green Salt?
The popularity of white and green Salicornia salt versions continues to grow in not only urban areas but the countryside as well. Cooking with green Salicornia salt is a delightful way to enhance the flavor of various dishes while adding a nutritional boost. Here are some tips on how to use this unique umami salt in your culinary repertoire:
- Seasoning Vegetables - Sprinkle green salt over roasted or grilled vegetables for an extra layer of flavor; just like you do with your French fries or freshly cut fruits. It will add an instant tangy zest.
- Marinades and Rubs - Use it as a marinade or rub for meats and seafood to impart a subtle, briny taste. Green salt or white Salicornia salt also helps to preserve the nutritional value of the food.
- Soups and Stews - Add a pinch of green salt to soups and stews to enhance their umami profile.
- Salads and Dressings - Mix it into salad dressings or sprinkle directly on salads for a fresh and salty touch.
- Finishing Salt - Use it as a finishing salt to garnish dishes right before serving, adding both flavor and visual appeal. Don’t be afraid after seeing the luscious green shade on your meal as Salicornia salt, particularly green Salicornia salt boasts high chlorophyll and fibre content.
The best part of vegan green salt is that it is one of the best salt substitutes available in the market. It is free of all unhealthy materials, such as:
- FREE of Gluten
- NON-GMO
- FREE of Microplastic
Benefits of Consuming Green Salt
Green Salicornia salt offers numerous health benefits, making it a valuable addition to every cook’s, chef’s and Granma’s kitchen. It is a highly recommended ingredient for a balanced diet.
Let’s get to know about its key advantages:
- Rich in Minerals - Unlike regular table salt, green Salicornia salt is rich in essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, Vitamins (E, B3) and calcium, vital for various bodily functions.
- Lower Sodium Content - It has a 50% lower sodium content compared to traditional salt, making it a healthier option for anyone who is trying hard to reduce their sodium intake.
- Antioxidant Properties - The vibrant green colour indicates the presence of chlorophyll and other antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and support overall health. Chlorophyll is also great for detoxification, improving energy levels, improving the digestive system and balancing the body's pH level.
- Supports Hydration - The balanced mineral content aids in maintaining electrolyte balance, which is crucial for proper hydration.
- Natural Umami Flavor - The natural glutamates in Salicornia contribute to its umami flavor, enhancing the taste of dishes without the need for excessive sodium.
Ergo, Salicornia powder is considered the best salt substitute in the market.
Variety of Salicornia Salt
Salicornia salt comes in various forms, each offering unique flavors and culinary uses. They also provide unique flavor profiles to the meals and thus, should be chosen according to their main characteristics.
Here are the primary varieties:
- Green Salicornia Salt - Made from the dried and ground Salicornia plant, this Salicornia powder is available vibrant green color and has a fresh, briny flavor.
- White Salicornia Salt - This variety is often derived from older Salicornia plants and has a milder flavor compared to its green counterpart. It is typically used as a more delicate seasoning.
What Chefs and Cooks Say About Salicornia Salt?
Chefs and culinary enthusiasts are increasingly embracing Salicornia salt for its unique flavor and amazing health benefits.
Also Read- Why Is Salicornia Powder The Umami-Packed Healthy Salt Substitute?
Here’s what some chefs and cooks have admitted when SaltWise chatted with them:
- Flavor Enhancer - Many chefs praise green Salicornia salt for its ability to enhance the natural flavors of dishes without overpowering them or dominating the food’s main profile. Its umami-rich profile is particularly valued in gourmet kitchens.
- Health- Conscious Choice - Health-conscious cooks appreciate its lower sodium content and rich mineral profile, making it a preferred alternative to regular salt.
- Versatility - Its versatility in both cooking and finishing dishes is highlighted, with chefs using it in everything from salads and seafood to grilled meats and vegetables.
- Sustainability - The sustainable nature of Salicornia cultivation appeals to environmentally conscious chefs who prioritize eco-friendly ingredients.
Matthew Sicher, a specialty mushroom and exotic foods producer says, “It’s from the sea, so it complements food from the sea. I recommend to my clients that they toss it in with fish just before it’s finished cooking.” He also admitted its power to substitute regular table salt variants, “I also like it as a substitute for a salty accent. I like mincing it up and using it in place of green olives in a potato salad.”
Conclusion
Green Salicornia salt is not only safe to eat but also a nutritious and flavorful salt substitute for traditional salt. Its rich history and numerous health benefits make it an excellent addition to any kitchen.
According to the USDA, there are 280 milligrams of sodium in one-half teaspoon of green salt, which is far less than the quantity in table salt or sea salt. Furthermore, because it is made entirely of Salicornia, you obtain a good amount of vitamins, minerals, and possible antioxidants from a plant source. On the other hand, regular salt is not made from plants.
Make an informed choice and add Salicornia salt from SaltWise in your kitchen to lead a healthy and hearty life.
