Sea salt is more than just a seasoning – it’s a craft that captures the essence of the ocean and elevates every dish. But how is sea salt made? What’s the difference between varieties like Fleur de Sel, and which sea salt is the best?
How Sea Salt is Made
Unlike regular table salt, which is typically mined from underground salt deposits and heavily refined, sea salt is harvested through a natural process. Seawater is collected in shallow basins and left to evaporate under the sun. As the water disappears, salt crystals begin to form – and depending on the conditions, various types of salt are collected.
Fleur de Sel – The Crown Jewel of Salt
Among all sea salts, Fleur de Sel is the most prized. Its name means “flower of salt” in French, and it refers to the delicate, flaky layer of salt that forms on the surface of salt ponds under specific weather conditions. Harvested by hand in places like Guérande in France and Ría Formosa in Portugal, Fleur de Sel is completely natural and rich in minerals.
Its taste is smooth, slightly briny, and nuanced – never overwhelming. The texture is crisp and melts beautifully on the tongue, making it a perfect finishing salt.
Other Types of Sea Salt
Aside from Fleur de Sel, there are several other kinds of sea salt, each with its own character:
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Coarse Sea Salt – Large crystals, ideal for cooking methods where the salt dissolves during preparation, such as boiling or stews.
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Fine Sea Salt – Everyday use, similar to table salt but with a more natural flavor and less processing.
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Flake Salt – Light, crunchy flakes that dissolve quickly. Perfect as a finishing touch on meat, fish, or salads.
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Infused Sea Salt – Sea salt blended with herbs, spices, or smoke for an extra flavor boost.
Which Sea Salt is Best?
It depends on the use, but in terms of purity, texture, and flavor complexity, Fleur de Sel is widely considered the best sea salt in the world. It’s used strictly as a finishing salt – cooking with it would be like pouring champagne into a pasta sauce: possible, but missing the point.
For cooking, go with coarse or fine sea salt. For tableside use or plating, flake salt or Fleur de Sel is your best friend.
Summary Table:
| Type of Sea Salt | Best Used For | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Fleur de Sel | Finishing, sprinkled before serving | Delicate flakes, mild & complex |
| Flake Salt | Finishing, meats & veggies | Crunchy texture, quick-melting |
| Coarse Sea Salt | Boiling, baking, preserving | Large crystals, bold flavor |
| Fine Sea Salt | Everyday cooking | Easy to measure, natural taste |
| Infused Sea Salt | Marinades, grilling | Aromatic, variety of flavors |
Whether you’re cooking, grilling, or plating – sea salt adds natural flavor and a layer of depth that processed salt simply can’t match.
Fleur de Sel – Now Available at Corkframes
We’re proud to now offer one of the world’s finest salts – Fleur de Sel – right here at Corkframes. Whether you’re plating a gourmet dish or simply want to elevate your home dining experience, this elegant salt brings out the best in every bite. Explore our curated selection today.
