Kosher salt is a salt normally found on the table of any kitchen. Although commonly recognized by that name, the true name actually is shortened from kosher and in there lays the secret to what it actually is. This form of sea salt was historically most commonly used in the kosher processing of removing blood from an animal, according to Jewish dietary law, and hence the name stuck. Today kosher salt is used to remove blood, fat, and digestive enzymes from food.
During the kosher salt manufacturing process, a process takes place that results in a rock-shaped salt with its main characteristic being its colorless, white, or grayish color. It is also described as "fissured" and "volumized". The reason for the production of this kind of rock salt is not clear, though some believe that it has to do with the inability of the blood to coagulate (i.e. clot) which is why only large animals such as cows are kosher salt free while smaller animals such as pigs and birds are not. Others believe that it has to do with the mixing of different chemical elements during the kashrut processing and thus resulting in rock salt with two or three colors, but this is highly debated and not supported either by the Orthodox, Conservative or Reform Jewish movements.
Kosher salt can be purchased in any grocery store or market. It can also be purchased online. Today sea salt has even been incorporated into some table salt because of its hygienic qualities. Kosher salt seasoning is a common household item used for cooking, as well as for seasoning foods and snacks. These salts are usually combined with herbs and spices in order to create an individual flavor.
There are three main differences between kosher salt and regular table salt. First, the kosher salt is more fine-grained to produce a more intense kosher taste. Also, it contains a greater amount of minerals like potassium and magnesium. Lastly, it has a reduced amount of iodine making it safer for those who have thyroid problems to take.
Before buying kosher salt or choosing to add it to your diet, it is important to understand the three main differences between kosher salt and regular cooking salt. First, kosher salt is much finer-grained and contains a lot more minerals and trace minerals. This results in a salt that is not only healthier but also more potent in terms of its flavor and odor. It is also recommended for use in food because of the lack of iodine compared to regular table salt.
Second, iodized salt in particular has a lower concentration of iodine leading to fewer risks of thyroid problems. Iodine is needed to help regulate the body's thyroid function. Iodine is found in table salt, which is often taken in supplements to help with deficiency due to hypothyroidism or chronic colds. Table salt however is not as absorbable as kosher salt so it goes unused. By using kosher salt it allows the body to get the iodine it needs without the risks of deficiency or acquiring other harmful diseases. In addition, using kosher salt is less expensive than buying iodine supplements.
Another way that kosher salt is used in food is in seasonings such as salt, herbs, and spices. With herbs, you can either use organic herbs or grow your own. Salt on the other hand is very affordable and it is much easier to use table salt. As a seasoning agent, it can help bring out or even enhance the flavors in a wide variety of foods including fish, meat, vegetables, soups, and stews. Seasoning with kosher salt does not require a lot of work since it does not have a high smoke point so it does not create a mess when you are working in the kitchen.
In addition to the wide variety of uses that kosher salt has, it also has a lower sodium count than regular table salt. It is also less processed and does not have any gluten, lignin, or other substances in its makeup which can cause issues with digestion or with people with wheat allergies. Its use as a food seasoning as well as a table salt makes it a healthy product to be used by many people from every walk of life. Because it has so many benefits, it is a great product to buy in bulk. You will save money and have leftovers in your kitchen.
