Can You Put Kosher Salt In A Salt Grinder? Is It Recommended?

Yes, you can put kosher salt in a salt grinder. However, whether or not it is recommended depends on the type of kosher salt and the type of grinder you use. This article will explore the nuances of grinding kosher salt, helping you decide if a kosher salt grinder is right for your culinary needs.

Image Source: i.ytimg.com

The Great Salt Debate: Kosher Salt vs. Table Salt vs. Sea Salt

Before we dive into the specifics of grinding kosher salt, it’s important to set the stage with a brief comparison of the most common types of salt found in kitchens. This will help clarify why kosher salt is often favored, and why some cooks consider using a kosher salt mill.

• Table Salt: Highly refined, with small, uniform crystals. It often contains additives like iodine and anti-caking agents. Its flavor is intensely salty.
• Sea Salt: Produced by evaporating seawater. It contains trace minerals that affect its flavor and comes in various crystal sizes, from fine to coarse.
• Kosher Salt: Usually produced by compacting flake salt. It has large, irregular crystals and no additives. Its pure, clean flavor and ease of handling make it popular among chefs.

Fathoming Kosher Salt

Kosher salt is a coarse-grained salt that’s named for its use in the koshering process of meat, where its large crystals are very effective at drawing out moisture and blood. Unlike table salt, it generally doesn’t contain iodine or anti-caking agents, resulting in a purer salt flavor. The size and shape of kosher salt crystals are key to its appeal, but they also influence whether or not it’s suitable for a coarse kosher salt grinder.

Types of Kosher Salt

Two main types of kosher salt dominate the market:

• Flake Salt: These are thin, flat crystals that offer a burst of flavor and a delicate crunch. Examples include Maldon salt. While technically kosher salt, flake salt is too delicate for grinding.
• Evaporated Granular Salt: These are denser, more cube-shaped crystals. Brands such as Diamond Crystal kosher salt fall into this category. This is the type typically considered for use in a grinder for kosher salt.

Why Grind Salt at All?

Grinding salt fresh releases volatile aromatic compounds, enhancing its flavor and aroma. Pre-ground salt loses these qualities over time. Additionally, freshly grinding kosher salt allows you to control the fineness of the salt, adapting it to different culinary applications.

Can You Really Use a Kosher Salt Grinder?

The short answer is yes, but with caveats. The type of grinder and the specific kosher salt crystal size matter.

The Grinder’s Role

Not all salt grinders are created equal. Factors to consider include:

• Mechanism: Ceramic grinding mechanisms are generally better than metal ones for salt, as salt can corrode metal over time.
• Adjustability: A good kosher salt grinder should allow you to adjust the coarseness of the grind, from fine to coarse.
• Material: Glass, acrylic, or stainless steel bodies are durable and resistant to corrosion.
• Size: Consider how much salt you use and how often you want to refill the grinder.

Salt Size is Key: What to Avoid

Avoid putting large, irregularly shaped crystals or flake salt in a grinder. These types of salt can jam or damage the grinding mechanism. Instead, opt for coarse kosher salt with relatively uniform crystal sizes.

What About a Pepper Grinder? Kosher Salt in Pepper Grinder

While technically possible, using a kosher salt in pepper grinder isn’t ideal. Pepper grinders are designed for peppercorns, which have a different texture and density than salt. Salt can corrode the metal parts of a pepper grinder, and the grind size may not be optimal. Dedicate a specific grinder to salt for best results.

Deciphering Grinding Kosher Salt: Best Practices

So, you’ve decided to try grinding kosher salt. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Choose the Right Salt: Select a coarse kosher salt with relatively uniform crystal sizes. Diamond Crystal is a popular choice. Avoid flake salt or very large, irregular crystals.
2. Select the Right Grinder: Invest in a high-quality salt grinder with a ceramic mechanism. Ensure it’s adjustable to control the grind size.
3. Fill the Grinder Properly: Don’t overfill the grinder. Leave some space at the top to allow the salt crystals to move freely.
4. Adjust the Grind: Start with a medium grind and adjust to your preference. Finer grinds are suitable for finishing dishes, while coarser grinds are better for seasoning during cooking.
5. Clean the Grinder Regularly: Salt can attract moisture and clump, so clean your grinder periodically to prevent clogging. Empty the grinder, rinse it with warm water, and dry it thoroughly before refilling.

Kosher Salt vs. Grinder Salt: Is There a Difference?

The term “grinder salt” typically refers to larger-grained sea salt or rock salt specifically intended for use in grinders. Kosher salt, while often coarse, is not always optimized for grinding in the same way. The key difference is in the crystal structure and moisture content. “Grinder salt” is usually drier and more uniform in size, designed to flow smoothly through the grinder.

The Benefits of Using a Kosher Salt Grinder

Using a kosher salt grinder offers several advantages:

• Fresh Flavor: Grinding salt fresh releases its aromatic compounds, enhancing the flavor of your dishes.
• Customized Grind: You can adjust the grind size to suit different culinary applications, from seasoning meats to finishing salads.
• Control Over Sodium Intake: Grinding your own salt allows you to use less salt overall, as the fresh flavor is more intense.
• Presentation: A stylish kosher salt mill can be an attractive addition to your dining table.

Potential Drawbacks

There are also some potential downsides to consider:

• Cost: High-quality salt grinders can be expensive.
• Maintenance: Grinders require regular cleaning and maintenance.
• Not All Kosher Salt is Suitable: You need to choose the right type of kosher salt for grinding.
• Potential for Clogging: Salt can clump and clog the grinder, especially in humid environments.

Alternatives to Grinding Kosher Salt

If you’re not convinced that grinding kosher salt is for you, there are other ways to enjoy its benefits:

• Pinching: Simply pinch the salt between your fingers and sprinkle it over your food. This allows you to control the amount of salt and distribute it evenly.
• Salt Cellar: Store kosher salt in a salt cellar or small bowl near your cooking area for easy access.
• Pre-Ground Kosher Salt: While not as fresh as freshly ground salt, pre-ground kosher salt is a convenient option.

Recommendations for the Best Salt for Grinder Kosher

Based on the criteria discussed, here are a few recommendations for the best salt for grinder kosher:

• Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt: Widely available and has relatively uniform crystal sizes, making it suitable for many grinders.
• Morton Coarse Kosher Salt: Another readily available option, but ensure the crystals aren’t too large for your grinder.

Table: Comparison of Kosher Salt Brands for Grinding

Brand	Crystal Size	Suitability for Grinding	Notes
Diamond Crystal	Medium, Uniform	Highly Suitable	Widely available, good all-around
Morton Coarse	Medium to Large	Suitable with Caution	Check for overly large crystals
Maldon (Flake)	Large, Flake	Not Suitable	Too delicate for grinding
Other Bulk Brands	Varies	Variable	Check crystal size before purchasing

Selecting a Grinder for Kosher Salt

Choosing the right grinder is crucial for success. Look for these features:

• Ceramic Grinding Mechanism: More durable and corrosion-resistant than metal.
• Adjustable Grind: Allows you to customize the coarseness of the salt.
• Durable Material: Glass, acrylic, or stainless steel bodies are recommended.
• Easy to Fill and Clean: Choose a grinder that’s easy to disassemble and reassemble.

Summary: Should You Grind Kosher Salt?

The decision of whether or not to put kosher salt in a salt grinder ultimately depends on your personal preferences and cooking style. If you value fresh flavor, enjoy experimenting with different grind sizes, and are willing to invest in a quality grinder and the right type of kosher salt, then grinding kosher salt can be a worthwhile endeavor. However, if you prefer convenience and don’t want to deal with the potential drawbacks, sticking to pre-ground kosher salt or other methods of seasoning may be a better option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use any type of kosher salt in a grinder?

A: No. Flake salt and very large, irregular crystals should be avoided, as they can jam or damage the grinder. Coarse kosher salt with relatively uniform crystal sizes is best.

Q: What type of grinder is best for kosher salt?

A: A salt grinder with a ceramic grinding mechanism and adjustable grind settings is recommended.

Q: How often should I clean my kosher salt grinder?

A: Clean your grinder every few months, or more often if you notice it clogging.

Q: Can I use a pepper grinder for kosher salt?

A: It’s not recommended. Salt can corrode the metal parts of a pepper grinder, and the grind size may not be optimal.

Q: Is there a difference between kosher salt and “grinder salt”?

A: “Grinder salt” is usually a type of sea salt or rock salt that is specifically designed for use in grinders. Kosher salt can be used, but be sure to use the granular type.