#15 BLACK AND RED SALT OF HAWAII
It is one of the most characteristic and particular salt varieties in the world, both because of its color and because of its taste and peculiar nutritional values. The Hawaiian salt is a large sea salt that is extracted and then handcrafted at the volcanic islands of the homonymous archipelago. It can be red or black and consequently also present distinct organoleptic properties.
The black salt of Hawaii owes its color to the presence of charcoal inside it. The vegetable carbon is present in the natural state at the bottom of the sea and is therefore incorporated into the salt in a completely spontaneous way. It is a substance of volcanic origin that gives salt, besides the typical corvine pigmentation, also purifying and detoxifying properties. Unlike other types of black salt, the salt of Hawaii is not artificially added with activated carbon but is extracted already equipped with this element. Activated charcoal is also known for its ability to positively influence digestion processes and its ability to reduce some symptoms of intestinal discomfort.
From the gustative point of view the big black salt of Hawaii is characterized by a clean, dry, markedly bitterish taste with smoky hints. Even the red salt of Hawaii has a basically bitter taste but with notes that recall mainly toasted toasted fruit.
The red salt of Hawaii draws its ruby red color from the considerable amount of iron in it. The existence of this mineral in such high percentages is due to the contact of the salt with the red volcanic clay present in the seabed. Once dried in the sun, the Hawaiian salt consequently reveals a color similar to that of clay. Besides the advantages deriving from the presence of iron, this salt can also bring benefits to the skin.
From the culinary point of view the Hawaiian black salt goes well with roast fish and meat, with cheeses (such as tofu), with grilled vegetables and pasta dishes. It is also recommended for the preparation of sushi and as a condiment for rice and sweet potatoes. Its color gives the dishes a curious and particular aspect so much so that it is often used also as a simple garnish. The black salt can also be laid on canapés and croutons to give a touch of creativity and elegance to aperitifs.
The Hawaiian red salt is adaptable to the same combinations listed above for the black salt. In addition to the gastronomic use, this salt can also be used in cosmetics. It is particularly suitable for the realization of both purifying and smoothing and exfoliating scrubs. The red salt is able to revive the skin and also restore the correct pH. If gently massaged it contributes to the elimination of dead skin cells and to improve the state of health and beauty of the skin.